DUBAI offers sights, sounds and experiences that may seem completely incompatible at first glance. But look closer, and you’ll realise that in Dubai, its many, many contradictions – from arid natural deserts to stunning man-made marinas, traditional spice souks to modern air-conditioned malls, and melodic Arabic cadences to clipped English rhythms – all happily co-exist in a charming mélange that just works!
My family and I visited Dubai to celebrate New year 2014. Although I love travelling, I have not explored a lot of Asia, which is one reason Dubai holds a special place in my heart (and on my fridge!)
If you ever find yourself in the gorgeous, diverse and cosmopolitan city of Dubai, there’s a bunch of things you can see, do and experience.
Here’s a list of my favorites!
- Book a Hop-On Hop-Off tour and visit Dubai’s iconic BURJ KHALIFA
Well over 800 metres tall, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest tower and an absolute must-see. I was thrilled to behold the structure from the street but this was nothing compared to what I felt when I actually got to the top. The majestic building dominates Dubai’s skyline and is best appreciated from the observation deck on Level 124. If you’re in the mood to go higher, ride one of the thrill-a-minute high-speed elevators to the luxurious At The Top Sky Lounge on Level 148, where you can enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the city.
In my experience, the best way to see Dubai is by booking a Hop-On Hop-Off tour. The tour has more than 30 stops, the tickets are fairly inexpensive and a single booking will save you the hassle of figuring out individually which places to go to and how to get there.
- Enjoy an intoxicating visit to Dubai’s sprawling SOUKS (markets)
Today, Dubai looks glamorous, glitzy and ultra-modern, but step into one of its souks, and your soul will be awash with the intoxicating sights and smells of its rich history.
The area around Dubai Creek is chock-full of winding waterways, a Museum as well as souks selling everything from spices and textiles to jewellery and knick-knacks. I skipped any shopping from the jewellery souk but the spice souk was like Disneyland for me! I stocked up on loads of traditional Middle Eastern spice mixes, dried limes, rose hips and my favourite – saffron!
- Take a leisurely walk along DUBAI CREEK
According to the day concierge at our hotel, Dubai Creek is the original site where the Bani Yas tribe had once settled. And the estuary’s waters were vital to Dubai’s once-main forms of economy – pearl diving and fishing. So the creek is awash (pun intended) in the rich history of Dubai and UAE. Talk to the locals and you’ll learn a lot!
My husband and I both love exploring places on foot and there are plenty of walking opportunities around Dubai Creek. However, you can also take a ride across the water on a traditional wooden ‘abra’ boat. Tickets are cheap and you’ll never forget the experience of travelling over water in a city that has traditionally been dominated by a desert!
- Explore the gorgeous resort complex of MADINAT JUMEIRAH
The stunning resort of Madinat Jumeirah (literally ‘City of Jumeirah’) is probably Dubai’s best example of a ‘marriage’ between luxury and tradition. It houses private enclaves, hotels, restaurants (there are more than 40!), theatres, spas and of course, souks.
Relax at Talise Spa, shop till you drop at Madinat Souk and check out the latest movie at Madinat Theatre. I would recommend that you also visit the breathtaking Jumeirah Mosque, the only mosque in Dubai that’s open to non-Muslim visitors. It is situated on Jumeirah Beach Road at the northern end of Jumeirah, opposite the Dubai Marine Beach Resort and Spa.
- Stroll along the man-made wonder that is DUBAI MARINA
The world’s largest man-made marina, Dubai Marina offers stunning views of Dubai’s urban skyline. If you are tired of all the indoor malls, spas and theatres that liberally dot Dubai’s cityscape, the Marina offers a refreshing outdoor escape (if you don’t mind the heat!)
Take a leisurely stroll along the Dubai Marina Walk and marvel at some of the world’s tallest – and priciest! – apartment buildings. But if you can’t resist the lure of urban amenities, then check out JBR, a ground-level stretch of clothing boutiques, stores and restaurants with outdoor seating. The Marina is also visible from the Dubai Marina Yacht Club across the water.
6. Visit the Dolphinarium
The Dubai dolphinarium is an indoor with live shows inside the Dubai creek park. Its the best indoor attraction if you want to beat the afternoon desert heat. The dolphin show will definitely keep the kids occupied. Choose VIP seats to be closer to the dolphins.
7. Half day desert safari in the dunes
The desert outside of Dubai is one of the most famous regions, portrayed in many American movies and beyond. Opting for Dubai desert safari tour will take you to the desert away from the hustle and bustle of the city and really show you the beauty of the region. And the best part; you will get to experience some exciting adventures of desert. You can ride the ship of the desert – Camel.
Once at the desert, the Land Cruiser will take you deep in to the desert for 30-40 minutes dune bashing drive. Gaze out at the golden sands that are being thrashed all over and feel like being in a roller coaster!
So, those are my Top recommendations of places to tick off your Dubai sightseeing list. I’d love to hear about your Dubai experiences. Leave me a comment below!