Originally a small fishing settlement that became a busy port of call on the ancient trade route between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley, the emirate was rapidly transformed into an international business centre and modern tourist destination following the discovery of oil in 1966.
Today Dubai ranks as the country's foremost commercial centre, a city whose skyline is constantly being upgraded with new developments providing the infrastructure and facilities needed for a progressive society, including world-class hotels, shopping plazas and outstanding sports facilities. Dubai Creek divides the city centre into two parts: Deira on the northern side and Bur Dubai to the south and each has its fair share of souks, restaurants, hotels, shopping malls and fine mosques.
From within these high standards of luxury and convenience, visitors can experience exotic Arabia in the bustling souks or a night in a Bedouin tent with belly-dancing under the starlit desert skies, as well as a way of life that is still embedded in the Islamic traditions of an ancient land. Dubai's attraction lies in the contrast between the ultra modern and the enchantingly traditional, which gives the city a personality like no other and visitors a variety of experiences to choose from. From desert oases and unspoiled beaches, camel races and old wind towers, to top-class shopping opportunities, avant-garde architecture and the finest international cuisine, Dubai has more than enough depth to satisfy even the most seasoned of travellers.
One of the city's top attractions is its excellent shopping. As an open port with low import duties, Dubai can offer an incredible range of top brand names at cheaper prices due to the tax-free environment, and 'shopping tourists' are drawn from around the world to this paradise of malls, souks, boutiques and modern department stores selling everything from Paris fashions to Japanese electronics. The annual Shopping Festival attracts millions of tourists to the city for a shop-till-you-drop holiday.
Attractions
The souks, or traditional markets, are popular with bargain hunters as well as sightseers and photographers. The most famous is the Gold Souk, where the narrow streets are lined with shops selling everything golden, from 24-carat bars to rings and elaborate necklaces, and all at low prices. The tiny lanes of the traditional spice souk are scented with sacks of cinnamon, incense, spices, and dried fruit, while the modern fish souk bustles with activity and is redolent with smells of a more unpleasant nature. At the heart of the Bur Dubai souk lies Al Fahidi Street, selling the latest electronics, photographic equipment and home appliances at competitive prices. Other streets sell everything from materials and carpets to traditional coffee pots, loaves of unleavened bread and hubble-bubble pipes.
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The old Bastakiya district is a step back in time to the days before electricity and air-conditioning, where traditional courtyard houses were cooled by wind towers. Old Dubai was famous for its wind towers that lined the Creek on both sides, and today the narrow lanes festooned with the distinctively Arabian architecture is a popular historical attraction that has been marked for tourist development.
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The natural seawater inlet that cuts through the centre of the city is the historical part of Dubai where visitors can take an abra(small water taxi) and view the old trading port and the dhows from the water. A cruise to Al-Maktoum Bridge will pass many of the city's historic, as well as modern, landmarks. A stroll around the wharf offers a picturesque glimpse of Dubai's trading heritage, where dhows bound for distant places dock to unload their goods.
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One of the most advanced water theme parks ever designed, the five-hectare (12-acre) water park at Wild Wadi offers families and thrill seekers hours of fun, relaxation and adrenalin-pumping action. Designed like an Arabian wadi (oasis), the park has an Arabian folklore theme and features some of the highest and fastest water rides outside of North America with 24 state of the art, high-adrenaline rides and slides. Rides for thrill seekers include Jumeirah Sceirah, a 108ft (33m) free-fall at 50 miles per hour (80km/hr), Master Blaster slides that are water roller coasters propelled uphill by high-powered jets, the white-knuckle ride at Rushdown Ravine or the high waves at Breakers Bay.
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Boasting the city's tallest minaret at 230 feet (70m), the Grand Mosque is a notable landmark with its multi-domed style and impressive size. It is an important place of worship and can accommodate up to 1,200 worshippers inside. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the Mosque.
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| Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum Museum |
Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum's house dates back to the 19th century, and was built for Dubai's ruler with commanding views over the sea. It is one of the oldest residences in the city and has been restored as a museum exhibiting historical photographs and artefacts showcasing Dubai's history and development. Its architecture is also a fine example of the regional style with its wind towers and central courtyard, teak wood doors and windows and wooden lattice screens.
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The Jumeirah Mosque is one of the most photographed sights in Dubai. A fine example of modern Islamic architecture, this beautiful mosque is also one of the city's largest, with a majestic dome and twin minarets, and is one of the few mosques open to non-Muslims for tours.
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The imposing 19th century Al Faheidi Fort houses the Dubai Museum, which has an impressive collection of military and cultural artefacts, as well as working models and life-size displays depicting various aspects of Dubai life such as the markets, an Islamic school, the desert, Arab houses and Gulf marine life. One of the most interesting exhibits shows the underwater world of pearl-diving. The fort was built in 1799 to guard Dubai from landward approaches, and was once the residence of the city's rulers as well as the seat of government until 1971.
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One of the city's newest and most interesting attractions is the region's first indoor ski resort, with real snow and five runs catering to both beginner and expert skiers and snowboarders. The monumental indoor snowdome can host up to 1,500 people. The longest run is 1,312 feet (400m), dropping 197 feet (60m), while a freestyle zone and quarter pipe cater specifically for snowboarders. Ski lifts, snow patrols and professional instructors help to create an authentic environment. A Snow Park at the bottom is ideal for children to play in the snow. Slope passes include all equipment and ski clothing except hats and gloves.
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For a real taste of Arabia, visitors can take a trip into the desert with any number of tour operators into the rolling sand dunes surrounding Dubai. Tours usually include a thrilling 4x4 drive over the dunes, camel riding, a visit to a local Bedouin village, and end with a traditional Arabian barbeque under the stars, with a show of belly dancing.
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No visit to Dubai would be complete without a trip to the races?the camel races. This is a traditional sport in the UAE and hugely popular among local Emiratis who head to the race tracks early in the morning to watch these magnificent animals. The racing season runs from September to March and race tracks can be found in various locations around the Emirate and on the way to Abu Dhabi. In 2007 a brand new venue was built close to Nad Al Sheba racecourse and races are held early on Thursday and Friday mornings.
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One of the main reasons holidaymakers flock to Dubai is to take advantage of the stunning beaches. If visitors aren't staying somewhere with access to the sand and sea, and don't want to pay 100AED plus to use a hotel's facilities, then Jumeirah Beach Park is a brilliant alternative. It cost just 2AED per person to enter the park, or 20AED per car. The beaches are clean and safe and, unlike some of the other public areas in Dubai, are not populated with 'gawkers'. There are even designated 'women only' sessions. The park section of the beach is equipped with BBQ facilities and seating areas. There are also showers and toilets on the beach, and lifeguards on duty at all times.
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| Bateaux Dubai Dinner Cruise |
The Bateaux Dubai Dinner Cruise provides visitors to the Emirate with a unique and memorable way in which to view the older part of Dubai. The two and a half hour cruise departs from just beyond the Al Maktoum Bridge and makes its way along the Creek past many of the city's most famous landmarks. Guests can take advantage of unobstructed views thanks to the non-reflective glass surround and extensive outside deck area. A four course a-la-carte meal is served during the cruise (diners with specific dietary requirements are requested to arrange at the time of booking) and alcohol is available to purchase on board. Musical entertainment is provided care of the Bateaux Dubai musicians and DJ. Booking is required in advance through the reservation line.
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Opened in November 2008, Dubai Mall is the world's largest shopping centre and is home to around twelve hundred retailers. It is the size of more than fifty football pitches and features an ice rink, a hotel, and is the gateway to the Burj Dubai; the tallest building in the world. The mall is home to a number of the world's best known stores including Bloomingdales, Marks and Spencer and Montblanc. Designers such as Stella McCartney also have outlets in the complex and world famous jewellers Tiffany & Co. have a branch located there. No trip to Dubai would be complete without an outing to Dubai's latest shopping spectacular.
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| Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo |
The recently opened Dubai Aquarium is fast becoming one of the Emirates most popular attractions. Featuring the largest viewing panel and one of the biggest tanks in the world, visitors have the opportunity to experience the incredible underwater domain of thousands of creatures of the deep. Highlights include feeding time for the enormous Sand Tiger Sharks and the majestic Stingrays. The aquarium and zoo is home to over thirty-thousand types of sea life and provides an exciting, educational day out for adults and children alike.
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With a variety of sports to choose from, Al Nasr Leisureland offers facilities to cater to just about every sport under the sun. From an ice rink to swimming pools, tennis courts and a bowling alley, children will have a great time trying their hand at everything. There is even an amusement park with bumper cars, rollercoasters, go-karting and much more.
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This 82,890 square-foot (7,700 sq-metre) education park is located in Dubai Creek Park and offers a wide range of activities geared towards kids, making the educational process fun. Children can learn all about the human body, science and space and the park also features a café, souvenir shop and wonderful views of the creek.
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Wonderland Theme and Water Park in Dubai Creek Park is a must for children struggling with the heat in this scorching city. The Caribbean themed park offers thrilling rides and slides such as the Red Baron, the spinning-coaster, the Action Arm, Lazy River and Surf Hill. Wonderland is a great way to spend the day with the family and a must for children of all ages.
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The Dubai Dolphinarium offers guests the chance to interact with these gentle aquatic mammals and watch them perform tricks with their trainers. The Dolphinarium is home to four Black Sea Bottlenose dolphins as well as four Northern Fur Seals. The dolphinarium allows visitors to swim with the dolphins in a pre-arranged session, and also features a restaurant and gift shop.
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With what seems like an endless lawn, Creekside Park is a great place for families and kids to enjoy while on holiday in Dubai. Boasting botanical gardens, an 18-hole mini golf course, an amphitheatre, picnic locations with barbecue equipment and a mini train and children's play areas, kids will be beside themselves with the endless amount of activities to enjoy here.
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Activities
Capital of the country known as 'the Pearl of the Arabian Gulf', Dubai is fast becoming a popular cruise destination for anyone planning to travel the Gulf Coast by sea. A place where the sea and the desert meet, this luxurious cruise destination is leisurely, luxurious and offers some of the world's finest shopping. The Dubai Cruise Terminal of Port Rashid opened in 2001 and can accommodate two ships simultaneously as well as offering cruise passengers views into beautiful lush palm gardens, Arabian heritage and cultural exhibits, a café, coffee bar and free Internet on five terminals in its business centre. The port terminal also offers two free shopping shuttles departing on the hour to Mercato Mall and City Center Mall, Deira. Dubai cruise passengers can explore the historical district of al-Bastakia, take a boat trip up Dubai creek or to the artificial Palm Islands, and shop till they drop in the world's shopping Mecca. Passengers opting for a more relaxing stay in the city will enjoy basking on the exquisite beaches and soaking up the beauty of the cost and its resorts. Passengers wanting to spend a few extra days in Dubai before or after their cruise will have no problem finding accommodation. With some of the most elite and stunningly beautiful hotels in the world, it's no wonder why Dubai is such a popular cruise destination. |  |
| Dubai Honeymoon and Wedding |
Dubai is a beautiful city by the sea, a splendid honeymoon destination! It's romantic, sophisticated and multicultural, an intriguing destination for newly-weds to experience together. Set between the desert and the Gulf of Oman's stunning coast, this is a city where modern skyscrapers rise between ancient mosques and souks (markets), all waiting to be explored by honeymoon couples. Dubai Honeymoon Things To DoDubai offers newly-weds a wealth of luxurious, private honeymoon accommodation. The tallest hotel in the world, and shaped like a huge sail, the 7* Burj Al Arab resort is just as spectacular in its hosting of guests. Close on its heels, Jumeirah Beach Hotel looks like a breaking wave and boasts its own private beach. In a league of its own, Al Hamra Fort Hotel is located on a private island with desert safaris, archaeological sites and a natural lagoon for couples to enjoy. While on honeymoon in Dubai, couples will not run short of things to do. The city offers an amazing selection of shops and souks - the Gold Souk is a must! The clear blue waters off Dubai's immaculate beaches are perfect for scuba diving and sailing, while camel riding, dune buggy expeditions and safaris are popular in the nearby desert sands. Enjoy indoor skiing and snowboarding together at the Ski Dubai resort. For history lovers, the Dubai Creek is reminiscent of an ancient Arabian port, quite a romantic stop, and Al-Hosn Palace has incredible courtyards for couples to explore. Walking the historic Bastakiya district can also be a romantic outing. In Dubai, newly-weds can revel in luxurious comfort while experiencing the beautiful cultures and sites of a foreign land. | 
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Events
Dubai - Dubai Exiles Rugby Ground
The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens heralds the opening of the IRB Sevens World Series, and features 16 of the best international rugby sevens teams each year. The event has grown rapidly over the last few years and attracts over 70,000 fans from around the world, drawn by its carnival-like atmosphere, making it one of the most popular events in the Middle East.
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Dubai - Throughout the city, but the main focal point of the festival is the Global Village, Emirates Road
The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) was started in 1996 by the government to promote retail trade in the city, and has since grown into the foremost shopping event in the world, an annual extravaganza of shopping and entertainment that promotes tourism and attracts millions of people from around the world to Dubai every year. The city is already known as a shopping paradise, but for a whole month thousands of retail outlets offer further specials, with hotels, travel companies and airlines also extending special discounts to visitors during this period. Besides the shopping malls and souks, one of the most popular shopping spots is the Carpet Oasis, showcasing thousands of exclusive carpets from around the world. Other events include nightly fireworks, laser/light shows, international fashion shows, street performances, music concerts and many cultural events. Daily raffle draws offer very attractive prizes of money, gold, cars and 4x4s. The festival also coincides with the richest horse race in the world, the Dubai World Cup (US$15,250,000 in prize money).
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Dubai - Majlis Course of the Emirates Golf Club
Part of the European PGA tour, the Dubai Desert Classic takes place at what was the first grass golf course in the Middle East, which was entitled The Desert Miraclein 1988. The tournament attracts prestigious international players to compete for the trophy and US$2.5 million in prize money.
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| Skywards Dubai International Jazz Festival |
Dubai - Dubai Media City and at Madinat Jumeirah Outdoor Amphitheater
Ten of thousands of jazz lovers flock to see some of the finest international acts in the world performing in a variety of genres including rocket-fuelled funk and bluegrass, pop, blues, rock, reggae, and afro-centric music. The increasing number of fans has helped secure it an award for the Best Festival in the UAE. | |  |
Dubai - Nad Al Sheba Racecourse
The Dubai World Cup is the richest horse race in the world, offering a purse of US$10 million, with US$3.6 million going to the winner of the mile-and-a-quarter race. The event attracts the best horses and jockeys from around the world every year. A visit to the state-of-the-art racecourse is an event in itself with its floodlit sand and dirt track and television monitors in all areas. The competition is almost as fierce off the track among the style conscious who compete for title of the best dressed.
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Dubai - Located at Dubailand. Emirates Road, Exit 37 (+971 4 362 4114)
The Global Village is a shopping, eating and entertainment extravaganza which runs throughout the winter months in Dubai. Bringing together traditions from across the globe, thousands flock each year to sample exotic foods, buy international goods and experience the sounds and smells of hundreds of diverse cultures. Many countries are represented, each housed in its own enormous pavilion and decorated in accordance with that country's heritage. Each year, organisers strive to make the attractions and pavilions at the Global Village bigger and better. In recent years attractions have included a five hundred metre man-made canal and forty metre Ferris wheel overlooking the desert.
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| Dubai Tennis Championships |
Dubai - Dubai Tennis Stadium
The world's top tennis stars descend on Dubai in February for the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships 2010. It marks the 16th year the competition has been held in the Emirate and will feature the top ten men's and women's players from across the globe. All four current women's Grand Slam champions, Maria Sharapova, Ana Ivanovic and Venus and Serena Williams, have been confirmed to appear on Centre Court. Tickets for the sports event are on sale now. Grandstand seating is free.
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Dubai
UAE National Day is celebrated on 2 December every year to mark the day in 1971 when the seven emirates first joined together to form the United Arab Emirates. It's a day to abandon reserve and party hard, as parades and fireworks erupt around town. Flags are waved all around, including - as one might except from the UAE - the world's biggest flag, unfurled in 2009 in Sharjah. The best spot to watch the festival parades is Beach Road while the fireworks can optimally be appreciated on the Burj Khalifa observation deck or at the Burj Al Arab in Dubai.
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Dubai
Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) is the summer version of the famous and much larger Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), which takes place every year in January. DSS is a pageant to consumer excess with a range of events and performances designed to enhance the mega-sales and exciting discounts in shops and malls all over Dubai. Lookout for the enormous yellow worm, Modhesh, the DSS mascot which is plastered on buildings and billboards. DSS has become the single biggest summer event in the Middle East, with over 6,000 mercifully air-conditioned stores taking part. In 2009 the event attracted 2.2 million visitors who spent over D .37 billion.
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