Dubai is the sort of place you think you know even if you’ve never been – it conjures up images of opulent hotels and towering sky scrapers. Most of our experience of Dubai is a stopover destination; however, it is so much more. It has some of the most luxurious resorts - the world’s only seven star hotel, world class restaurants, pristine beaches and a great place for a family holiday. Even if you choose to use it as a gateway to your next destination, make your next stopover a bit longer to enjoy what of what Dubai has to offer.
CITY OF CULTURE
Delve into Dubai’s history with a visit to the Dubai Museum, housed in the 18th century Al Fahidi Fort, it explores local life and history, form pearl diving to a traditional home.
Jumeirah Mosque, the only mosque in Dubai open to non-Muslims, offers an insight into the role Islam plays in the emirate with tours at 10am most days (excluding Fridays).
For those seeking adventure, a desert safari offers sand-skiing, camel rides and desert camping, plus a barbecue, belly dancing and local shisha. Drive a Formula1 car on Yas Marina Circuit or ballooning at dawn over the desert; throwing a motorbike or 4x4 up 250ft sand dunes.
There are some yearly events such as the Ethihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Volvo Ocean Race, Mubadala World Tennis Championship, HSBC Golf Championship and Gourmet Abu Dhabi. Experience world class opera performances at the Royal Opera House.
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
For families, a visit to one of Dubai’s stat-of-the-art water parks is essential. The Palm, Aquaventure has a near-vertical 30m drop into a transparent tunnel through a shark-filled lagoon, plus adventure playground and rapids. The Wild Wadi water park next to the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, has 30 different rides and attractions, suitable for all ages.
Kidzania, a pint-sized world where children get to try their hand at everything from flying a plane to working as a surgeon, the spectacular Ski Dubai, the only indoor ski resort in the Middle East and computer-game adventure park Sega Republic.
WORLD CLASS RESTAURANTS
Treating yourself to exotic cuisines is one of the highlights of any holiday and Dubai offers the chance to try traditional Arabic dining as well as a selection of restaurant from around the world. Enjoy European food from the like of Nobu or The Ivy, Rhodes – from Michelin-starred chef Gary Rhodes and other with a middle-eastern twist at Baker & Spice in view of the World’s tallest tower – the Burj Khalifa.
The 180 at the Hyatt Capital Gate is in the Guinness Book of Records for leaning at an angle four times more acute than the Tower of Pisa. Along with heart-stopping views of the city’s skyscrapers, diners are treated to speciality dishes from Greece, Turkey, Syria and Lebanon, on a menu that changes with the season. Three show-kitchens add to the theatrical mise-en-scene. At the Beach House at the Park Hyatt, guest can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, wine and cocktails overlooking Saadiyat beach, but it’s the waterfront BBQ al Qasr at Emirates Palace that ticks the boxes on a romantic night.
A SHOPPER’S PARADISE
Dubai is one of the world’s most popular shopping destinations. Its malls are reminiscent of European Piazzas, featuring theatres and galleries. Be sure to visit the Mall of the Emirates, with polished marble floors, spacious avenues, and designer stores like Harvey Nicholas. And not trip to Dubai would be complete without visiting the world’s largest shopping centre, Dubai Mall, with over 1200 shops.
Dubai is also famous for its souks, where you can buy anything from clothes to local food. Breathe in the aromas at the Spice Souk or stroll through the dazzling Gold Souk. The Dubai Shopping festival is held every January and February, featuring city wide sales with big discounts on most things.
STAY IN LUXURY
The iconic sail-shaped Burj Al Arab is well known for style and luxury but there many others such as the Emirates Palace – was the most expensive when it open back in 2005; Jumeirah at Etihad Towers and the Qasr Al Sarab, a desert fortress with pool villas.
There are affordable alternatives for family holiday. The Atlantis, The Palm, situated at the apex of the impressive Palm Island, has something for everyone, from pampering facilities for mums and dads to entertainment for the young at heart. The resort’s Lost Chambers Auarium is home to countless species of underwater life including over 400 sharks and rays. The hotel also has its own spa providing an extensive programme of rejuvenating therapies.
The Jebel Ali Golf Resort And Spa is also highly recommended and boasts great value all-inclusive family offers.