Dubai is an exotic city that is sure to exceed all your expectations. It proudly showcases how beautiful a desert can be. You will be amazed at how absolutely incredible it is that an infrastructure like this can exist in the middle of desert. As part of the United Arab Emirates, the wealth that exists here is unbelievable. Thus, some believe only millionaires can have the pleasure of exploring this unique getaway. However, Dubai can be enjoyed even if you are on a tight budget.
Before we begin on all the adventures you can have, it is important to know that Friday is a day off and that during Ramadan, many restaurants will be closed during daylight hours. Dubai is cut in two by a creek, however getting from one side to the other is simple and cost efficient. For a unique tour, climb aboard a Dhow and cruise along the shores in this beautiful wooden boat. Another must when exploring Dubais landscape is a desert safari. Whether you go for a few hours or well into the night, the adventures to be had will create lasting memories.
The Al Fahidi Fort was built back in 1799 and houses the Dubai Museum. The building itself is quite impressive and has been used for many purposes over its history. Today, you can explore its military museum, thousand year-old graves and fascinating exhibits. There is also the Islamic Museum. Its Science Hall houses the first world map. The Grand Mosque, located along Jumeirah Beach, is quite simply stunning. Its twin minarets and impressive dome make it one of the most photographed mosques in the entire area. Please note, that as a visitor you will not be able to go inside the mosque but its exterior is nevertheless worth seeing.
Catch a glimpse of old Dubai as you make your way around the Bastakiya area. Visit the Emirate of Sharjah if you are interested in learning more about the Arab world. Known as the Arab Worlds Cultural Capital you can go site seeing and enjoy learning about a history that dates back to 1099. Women traveling to Dubai can experience an ancient custom of decorating ones skin with henna. Think of it as a tattoo, without the pain or lifelong commitment. With all the creativity and artwork applied, it almost makes it a shame that it comes off.
Whether you are a die-hard shopper or simply enjoy browsing the stores, the options available to you in Dubai are incredible. From leather to electronics, gold and silver or designer duds, you can find pretty much anything you would ever want. In fact, Dubai is known as the shopping capital of the Middle East. They even have a shopping festival. How can you go wrong? You could spend days in their fantastic malls and boutiques but make sure you leave enough time, and money, to explore the souks. The two markets that are absolute musts are the gold and spice souks. The gold souks have over 100 stores eager to show you their creations and their prices are incredibly reasonable. You can smell the aroma of the spice souk before you even see it. Anyone who loves to cook will enjoy wandering through the stalls. Please note, you can bargain at the souks but the mall and boutique prices are already set.
What better way to cool off from the desert sun than to spend it on a beach or at a water park? The sand beaches of Dubai are picture perfect and the water always seems to be at the right temperature. You can go diving among the coral reefs, loll around in the surf or get a tan on the beaches. The Wild Wadi Water Park is an absolute blast for the entire family. Enjoy rides that push you up the slide, go on the Rushdown Ravine or try out the wave pools. Whatever ride you choose, you will have a great time. Ask which days are available for you to visit though as there is one reserved each week for women and children only.
So what is there to do when that sun goes down? Almost too much for you to fit in on one trip, that is for sure. There is a fantastic array of world-class restaurants, lounges, clubs and discos. Explore the hot spots found at the hotels or wander the streets for the latest club opening. At the end of a long, fun-filled night, you can lay your head at a host of stunning hotels. Whether you can afford the Burj el Arab or are staying at one of the many other hotels, the quality of service will definitely impress you.
Whether you have the means to explore Dubai once or numerous times, it is a destination worth every penny. The sites and sounds will be embedded in your mind for years to come and rightly so. What you can all experience truly seems out of this world.
Is Dubai your hometown? Is it your favorite place to visit? Share your story, tell us what we should know and what are the must sees. Add your comment +
dubai is not my home town but i once visited there. Dubai is a great place to travel i love that place .
dubai is a fantastic place to visit i love all stuff over there dont miss desert safari and ski dubai its fantastic, and taste karachi darbar at bur dubai my favrote is mutton masala and a afgani mutton and enjoy dubai ..........