WATCH: The UAE From A New Perspective In National Geographic’s Latest Documentary

What do you think of when you think of the Emirates? There are the obvious (and impressive) skyline shots that first come to mind. The diverse group of people from all corners of the world that call the nation home. The mix of modern architecture and rich heritage, new and old traditions. Sand dunes, skyscrapers, and sunshine, oh my!

But what really makes the UAE, the UAE? Or is it, in fact, that unique combination of all these elements that make people move here for a year, and stay for a decade? And for the biggest question: how on earth do you capture that in a film? 

Well, National Geographic has done just that.

The Emirates from Above is a 44-minute global documentary that perfectly captures the nation as never seen before – all from above!

Leveraging cutting-edge drone technology, the documentary features the incredible history, diverse culture, stunning architecture, and iconic landmarks that make the UAE, the UAE.

Featuring many of the Emirates’ iconic landmarks, the documentary also tells the ‘untold’ stories of hidden gems across the UAE

…including Dubai Frame, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Camelicious, Mleiha Archaeological Centre, Al Ain Oasis, Qasr Al Hosn, Expo 2020 Dubai, and Sir Bani Yas Island.

Joining National Geographic’s well respected (and loved) global ‘From Above’ series, The Emirates from Above is the first GCC nation to be featured! The anticipated special will also air in 33 languages, in 120 countries on National Geographic.

The important deets:

Friends in the UAE – if you’re around this National Day weekend, don’t miss the world premiere of the documentary at Expo 2020 Dubai’s Al Forsan Park! Presented by the USA Pavilion, the special screening event kicks-off at 7pm on December 1 and is open to all Expo ticket holders.

Other plans? Not a problem! The Emirates from Above will also air on National Geographic (and free-to-air National Geographic Abu Dhabi in Arabic!) at 10am on December 2, with repeats at 3pm and 9pm. What a way to kick-off the 50th Jubilee! 

via GIPHY

BONUS: You might recognize the English narrator as the voice of Scar in Disney’s The Lion King! National Geographic Abu Dhabi viewers will recognize Emirati actor, producer, and TV presenter Saoud Al Kaabi as the Arabic narrator