Tranquil deserts, glitzy shopping, and tumultuous bazaars lead to the one and only city of Dubai! Dubai is known for everything glamorous but that’s not what it’s all about. There is a huge variety of things to see and do. In one day, you can see vast dunes, traditional villages and remarkable skyscrapers. Let’s take a little look!
‘…vast dunes, traditional villages and remarkable skyscrapers…’
Ain Dubai
Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel on Bluewaters Island stands more than 250 metres tall. About 9000 tonnes of steel was used in the construction of the wheel, which is 25% more than the amount of iron used to build the Eiffel Tower. Around 30 buses could fit inside each leg supporting the wheel, which carry 48 passenger capsules with a capacity of 1900 people. Due to its height and slow movement Ain Dubai provides an impressive view over the surrounding areas. The wheel turns at low speed so it’s possible for users to get on and off the cabins in the bottom section while the wheel is turning.
‘…capacity of 1900 people…’
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a stray away from the thought that Dubai is a wealthy oil-fuelled economy and pulsating tourism destination; Dubai’s emergence in its current, modern form is a fairly recent development.
Take a stroll through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, alongside the Dubai Creek to gain another perspective on the heritage of the city. Among traditional-style houses and other buildings from before Dubai’s rapid modernisation in the 1970s, you’ll find art exhibitions, creative studios, museums, and much more.
‘…from before rapid modernisation…’
Arabian Desert Safari
A trip into the Arabian Desert is a popular excursion for visitors to Dubai. You can take to the sands in a 4×4 for an exhilarating dune bashing experience or explore it at a more leisurely pace on an obliging camel. A desert safari in the morning is a magical way to start to a day in Dubai.
‘…exhilarating dune bashing…’
Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa towers at an amazing 828 metres. It’s an adrenaline-charged feeling of being on top of the world on The Top Burj Khalifa observation deck. The deck is on the 124th floor of the world’s tallest tower and is guaranteed to be a highlight of any visit. You can marvel at the dazzling lights of Dubai that lie below at sunset. If you visit during the day, you can bask in the sun on the funky outdoor terrace.
‘…adrenaline-charged feeling…’
Dubai Frame
Dubai Frame is one of the city’s skylines that represents a remarkable engineering feat. Situated in Dubai’s Zabeel Park, directly between old and new Dubai, the towering structure offers sweeping panoramic views of the city from 150 metres high. One of its most amazing features is the state-of-the-art clear glass bridge connecting parallel vertical towers to create the shape of a picture frame. The Dubai Frame is a must-see attraction!
‘…state-of-the-art clear glass bridge…’
Dubai Mall
At the Dubai Mall you’ll find everything from ski fields to aquariums. The sprawling shopping mall has 1200-plus shops and 150 restaurants, the venue is home to an indoor theme park, an ice rink, a huge indoor waterfall, a choreographed outdoor fountain and the giant Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. The boutiques and markets are open until midnight daily. When it comes to one-stop-shopping, Dubai Mall is the go-to hub for luxury, mid-range and high-street brands.
‘…aquarium and underwater zoo…’
Dubai Museum
The Dubai Museum is where you can trace the history of Dubai; you’ll see re-created reed houses and a pearling-era souk among other interesting artefacts, while learning about the city’s amazing transition from a backwater into an affluent modern city. The Dubai Museum is set in the historical Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest remaining building in Dubai constructed at the start of the 1970s when the city’s breath-taking reinvention began to materialise. The Dubai Museum conserves the traditional way of life that existed before.
‘…amazing transition from a backwater into an affluent modern city…’
Grand Mosque
The Grand Mosque in Bur Dubai features Dubai’s tallest minaret that offers dizzying heights; it stands at an impressive 70 metres tall and boasts 45 small and nine larger domes. Each dome has beautiful stained-glass panels that glisten in the sun. The Grand Mosque is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
‘…stained-glass glisten in the sun…’
Palm Jumeirah
The iconic Palm Jumeirah is an artificial archipelago on the stunning coastal area of Dubai. Jumeirah is in the shape of a palm tree, it’s as large as 800 football pitches. You can relax in the sunshine and watch people go about their daily business along the coastline. Once you step back onto dry land, take time to explore the sights of the area’s luxurious hotels, or go diving around the exotic artificial reef that was created by purposely sinking two F-100 Super Sabre fighter jets.
‘…archipelago on the stunning coastal area…’
Souks
Dubai’s souks are fabulous, you can to wander around, soak up the atmosphere and find a bargain in these traditional markets. You will find everything from spices and hand-woven textiles to gold and organic fruit and vegetables. Bargaining is an essential part of your shopping experience, so don’t be afraid to negotiate. Situated on the Deira side of Dubai Creek, the Gold Souk and Spice Souks are within walking distance.
The Gold Souk is probably Dubai’s most famous market, it’s said to be the largest gold bazaar and one of the best places in the world to shop for fine jewellery, gold, silver and gemstones. Whether you want to create a bespoke piece, buy wedding gems or pick up fashionable designer jewellery, all tastes and cultures are catered for.
‘…largest gold bazaar in the world…’
The popular Spice Souk is where you’ll encounter a dizzying collection of dried herbs and spices at fantastic prices. Seasoned cooks love the delightful aromatic journey, while non-foodies are amazed by the variety of colours and exotic fragrances. Take your pick from cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, saffron, turmeric, sumac and many more herbs and spices.
‘…delightful aromatic journey…’
Dubai is definitely an exceptional holiday destination where rich culture and history, adventure, first class shops, dining and entertainment attractions make a perfect combination. Dubai has something for everyone; beautiful beaches, mysterious deserts and heritage sites.