Cardiovascular disease and its associated risk factors impose a huge morbidity, mortality, and disability burden on the UAE population, to an extent exceeding the global rates. In the last two decades, the UAE cardiovascular healthcare sector has undergone massive development, with the establishment of highly specialized centers, partnerships with world-renowned health institutions, high-quality clinical cardiovascular research, and the initiation of cardiovascular training programs. However, further efforts are warranted to increase public awareness of the burden of cardiovascular disease, promote healthy behaviors, tackle cardiovascular risk factors, and improve adherence to recent guidelines in order to improve patient outcomes. Here, we present epidemiological data on cardiovascular disease in the UAE, a historical perspective, major milestones in the care of cardiac patients, and current challenges and future directions in the field.