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Dubai, where dreams come alive!

Dubai travel guide, panoramic, cityscape min

Dubai is a must-see for architects.

Discover the captivating allure of Dubai, a city where modern marvels meet ancient traditions. Explore a dazzling oasis of luxury, where towering skyscrapers brush against the clear blue sky and pristine beaches beckon. Uncover a dynamic blend of cultures, from vibrant souks to world-class shopping malls. Immerse yourself in an extraordinary culinary scene that tantalizes the senses, and experience adrenaline-pumping adventures in the desert or on the sparkling waters. 

Dubai Travel News

Travel and home boarding pass emirates airlines, paperless boarding as from May
Where? Emirates passengers checking in at Emirates airline's hub at Dubai's Terminal 3
When? As from May 15th, 2023.

Emirates customers who check in in person at Terminal 3 in Dubai will no longer receive paper boarding passes; instead, they will now receive a mobile boarding pass through email or text. Passes for online check-in passengers can be accessed using the Emirates app and loaded into either Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. Additionally, receipts for checked baggage, which are typically printed and given to passengers when they drop off their luggage, will either appear on the app or be delivered through email. The mobile pass will be accepted and scanned at every stage where a boarding pass may be necessary, including security screening, boarding the aircraft, and even shopping in Dubai Duty-Free. 

Dubai Burj Kalifa building amongst other skyscrapers

Know before you go!

Dubai considers some social behavior unlawful. For example, PDAs (public display of affection) and consuming alcohol in public.

Keep your dress code conservative. For instance, cover your shoulders.

UTC+04:00 (UAE Standard Time).

AED, i.e. the United Arab Emirates dirham (also known as, Emirati dirham – abbreviated to DH or Dhs). The dirham is subdivided into 100 fils.

May to September is very hot and it may be rather uncomfortable on a desert safari. November to March is the best time to explore Dubai because it is not unbearably hot. Winter temperatures are around 20⁰C average low in January.

Dubai is a travel bucket list destination of note. Generally, a 3-day or 4-day visit should suffice to see the best of Dubai, but not if you’re an aspiring architect or already practicing. Add another two days at least.

Dubai is also known for its luxury shopping and lively nightlife.

Dubai Fountains

Guinness World Records

Fun Fact: Dubai has the world’s longest driverless metro line in the world.

The 52 km red line combined with the 22.5 km green line makes for a Guinness World Record. 

Things to do; Places to see

Burj Khalifa

Go up to the 124th floor in the Burj Khalifa building. The building is known for being the tallest building in the world at 829.8 m. 

The gravity-defying view from the observation deck is jaw-droppingly beautiful.

Dubai Fountains

Grab a light lunch or at least some coffee at a café near the Dubai Fountains (at the foot of Burj Khalifa). Sit back and enjoy the magnificent fountains with jets and lights choreographed to music.

The same team that was behind the Bellagio Fountains in Las Vegas, was behind the Dubai Fountains.

Miracle Garden

Flora-lovers must go to the Miracle Garden, the world’s largest natural flower garden located in Dubailand. The 72,000 sq. m garden features over 50 million flowers and 250 million plants! It’s a spectacle of colors and scents.

Dubai’s Museum of the Future

Discover the cutting-edge marvels at Dubai’s Museum of the Future. Immerse yourself in a visionary experience that showcases the latest advancements in technology and innovation, offering a glimpse into a world transformed. Explore interactive exhibits, engage with futuristic concepts, and witness the incredible potential that lies ahead in this iconic architectural masterpiece.

Ski Dubai

If you always wanted to ski or snowboard but never had the opportunity, now is the time. At Ski Dubai, which is part of the Mall of the Emirates, you can play around in the snow. It’s about 22,500 m in size and even has a chairlift. Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East. Of course, it is not real snow, but it’s remarkably close to the real deal. Dress warm because you can expect temperatures of -1ºC to 2 ºC.

Burj Al-Arab 

Make a dinner reservation or stop for cocktails at Burj Al-Arab hotel. The hotel is not only the tallest hotel in the world, but it has an underwater restaurant. So, if dining amongst sea creatures sounds attractive to you, make your reservation well in advance to avoid disappointment.  

Museums

At the 18th century home of the Dubai Museum, the Al-Fahidi Fort, you’ll get to know about Emirati musical instruments, and the effect the oil boom had on the Emirates.

They also have a Coffee Museum where you can see coffee artifacts from around the world. Participate in a Bedouin coffee ritual, an Arab tradition.

Dubai Creek

The Dubai Creek divides this United Arab Emirates city into two towns. Namely, Deira (north) and Bur Dubai (south). Go see the Dhow Warfage, known for its fishing dhows.

Ski Dubai Exterior
Ski Dubai Exterior
Surfing with the Burj Al Arab in the background
Surfing with the Burj Al Arab in the background

 

Marina

Dubai plans for the Dubai Marina to be the largest man-made marina globally. A boat excursion to view the spectacular skyscraper architecture from the waterside is highly recommended. Take a boat cruise on an abra. i.e. a traditional boat.

Meander in the small alleyways of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Pop in at a gallery or two, and grab some local cuisine. 

Marina United Arab Emirates
Dubai Creek
Dubai Creek

Wild Wadi Water Park

The fun-filled amusement park not only has iconic city views, but it’s also the perfect place for adrenaline-pumping adventures. Set amid Jumeirah’s beach hotels this outdoor water park is also a great spot to spend a lazy afternoon at the poolside. The fun-themed park (based on the tale of Juha, a popular character in Arabian folklore) offers rides and attractions for young (a guaranteed hit) and old, all year through.

Address: Opposite Burj Al Arab – Jumeirah St – Umm SuqeimUmm Suqeim 3 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Aquaventure Water Park

The park is an adventure waiting to happen with zip lines, slides through shark-filled lagoons, and a splash area for the kiddies. Aquaventure water park will have your pulse racing, no doubt about that! Also, consider going down Dubai’s longest river, the Lazy River – it’s fun.

Address: Atlantis The Palm – Crescent Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Shopping

The Dubai Mall is not just for shopping. It is an experience on its own with a games center, a cinema, and an ice-skating rink. Also, it has an entrance to Burj Khalifa.

Aquaventure Park Dubai
Aquaventure Water Park

Shopping

The Dubai Mall is not just for shopping. It is an experience on its own with a games center, a cinema, and an ice-skating rink. Also, it has an entrance to Burj Khalifa.

Dubai Mall, souk, shopping, gold, jewelry min

The souks

The souks are vibrant marketplaces that have been an integral part of Dubai’s culture for centuries. Here, you’ll find a captivating blend of sights, sounds, and scents that awaken your senses.

Tradition thrives in the souks, and they offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region. Lose yourself in the maze-like alleys lined with tiny shops, where local artisans and merchants proudly display their wares. From gleaming gold and intricate jewelry to colorful textiles, exotic spices, and fragrant incense, the souks offer a treasure trove of unique finds.

Haggling is an art form in the souks, so be prepared to engage in friendly negotiations with the vendors. It’s all part of the experience, and you might just walk away with a great bargain and a memorable interaction. Don’t be shy to ask questions or seek recommendations from friendly shopkeepers, as they are often more than happy to share stories and insights about their products.

But it’s not just about shopping in the souks. These lively marketplaces are also a feast for your taste buds. Indulge in the flavors of traditional Arabic street food, savoring aromatic shawarmas, falafels, and freshly squeezed juices. And as the sun sets, the souks transform into a magical place, with twinkling lights and a lively atmosphere that invites you to explore further.

How it’s different to the malls

The souks of Dubai offer a captivating contrast to the modern malls, providing an authentic and immersive shopping experience. They are a testament to the city’s deep-rooted traditions and a must-visit for those seeking a glimpse into the soul of Dubai. It’s a must-do in Dubai, that is to wander through the labyrinthine lanes, soak in the vibrant ambiance, and discover treasures that will forever remind you of the magic of the souks.

Property investments

If you want to invest in secluded properties, The World Dubai about 2.5 km off the coast is it. Shaped in the form of a world map, this artificial archipelago is unique in the world.

Palm Islands

Go see the Palm Islands, the world’s largest artificial archipelago created out of only sand and rocks. It took over 3 billion cubic feet of sand from the seabed and 7 million tons of rock from the Hajar Mountains.

Explore the Palm Islands on a fun jet ski ride. Alternatively, why not enjoy a thrilling tandem skydive to get another great view of Dubai?

Palm Islands Dubai
Palm Islands Dubai
Dubai desert
Dubai desert camels

Desert Conservation Reserve

Go on safari! The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is a natural reserve. At about 225 sq. m the reserve comprises about 5% of the Emirate of Dubai’s total landmass.

A vast variety of tours are available day or night, depending on your preference. 

If you have not yet been on a camel’s back, this is the place to tick off another bucket-list item as “done”! In fact, camel racing is one of the most popular sports in the city! 

Dubai Travel Expenses

One thing we all know only too well is the cost of living where we live. However, what we don’t know is how it compares to our dream holiday destination. Compare city to city on typical holiday expenses. Like the cost of dinner out, or the cost of groceries (self-catering holidays), or transport such as taxis, buses, and trains. 

Fly Dubai

Dubai International Airport (DXB)  is Dubai’s primary international airport.

Dubai's extraordinary culinary scene

sticky baklava, freshly baked kunafa (or kunefe), and creamy Arabic ice cream, falafels, Arabic cuisine min

It’s a food lover’s paradise, where flavors from around the world come together in a glorious gastronomic symphony. Picture this: you’re strolling through the bustling streets, and the enticing aromas of spices and grilled delicacies fill the air.

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and that’s perfectly reflected in its food. From authentic Emirati cuisine to tantalizing Indian curries, and aromatic Lebanese mezze to mouthwatering Italian pastas, you’ll find it all here. The city boasts an impressive array of restaurants, from high-end fine dining establishments to charming hidden gems tucked away in vibrant neighborhoods.

Let’s talk about the lavish brunches that are legendary in Dubai. Imagine a lavish buffet spread, brimming with fresh seafood, succulent roasts, colorful salads, and decadent desserts. Oh, and don’t forget the free-flowing beverages that keep the good times rolling. It’s an indulgent feast that will leave you in a state of culinary bliss.

Street food

But Dubai isn’t just about fine dining and brunches. The city embraces street food with open arms. Wander through the bustling night markets, known as souks, and you’ll find sizzling shawarmas, aromatic falafels, and juicy kebabs beckoning you to take a bite. And if you’re craving something sweet, there’s no shortage of irresistible treats like sticky baklava, freshly baked kunafa (or kunefe), and creamy Arabic ice cream.

And let’s not forget the innovative and daring culinary creations that Dubai is known for. Talented chefs from around the world flock to this city to showcase their skills and push the boundaries of gastronomy. You’ll find avant-garde fusion dishes that blend flavors and techniques from different cuisines, ensuring every meal is a delightful adventure for your taste buds.

Whether you’re a foodie on a quest for new flavors or someone who simply enjoys good food, Dubai’s culinary scene will leave you in awe. It’s a city where diverse cultures converge on the plate, creating a vibrant tapestry of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. So come hungry, because Dubai is ready to take you on a culinary journey like no other!

Stay in Dubai

Jumeirah Beach is a great location not only because it has a wide variety of accommodation on its coastline, but also because it’s the best sandy beach in town. It’s also ideal for walks on the beach and to cool off from the intense sun with a great view of the city.

Use the map below to scroll and zoom around for accommodation. 

Check in at the Atlantis Resort

Atlantis Palm Island Dubai
Atlantis Resort, Palm Island, Dubai

Finally, Dubai is a city of limitless possibilities and awaits your arrival. Take the plunge, and book your trip!