Dubai Glamourous hotels, glitzy sky scrapers, extravagantly themed malls, man-made islands and a dazzling array of dining options is what makes Dubai a city like no other in the world. Unique in its own special way, Dubai is a pulsating city and the proud owner of the world’s tallest building. Under the cosmetics however another Dubai still exists, head to the old city centre and witness this. Old traditional Arabian houses line the creek, along with an array of dhows in the water (traditional wooden boats), and a mish mash of old style souqs filled with local people looking for a bargain. Look beyond this metropolis though and find a city that is surrounded by never ending dunes and a shore line home to impressive beaches and well known five star hotels.
Our favourite things to see and do BURJ KHALIFA – Put your fears aside for the day and visit Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Towering at over 828 metres and with more than 160 stories, this is the ideal skyscraper to get magnificent 360 degree views of Dubai city. The journey begins in the lower ground level of The Dubai Mall which is another highlight in itself. THE WALK – This popular and bustling waterfront promenade in Jumeirah Beach Residence is well worth a visit. With a mix of Western and Arabic entertainment it is home to chic art galleries, boutique cafés, restaurants and shops. If you visit on a Friday, be sure to opt for a Friday Brunch which is a new trendy craze for expats. BASTAKIYA QUARTER – Head to the Old Quarter, Dubai’s historic heart and wind your way through the narrow white-washed lanes overlooked by traditional Arabian Courtyards. In the courtyards you’ll find cute garden cafés along with boutique art galleries showcasing local art. Soak up the atmosphere and leave the allure of modern Dubai behind. THE DUBAI MALL – Not to be missed is the largest shopping and entertainment district in the world. Home to over 1000 retail stores and over 160 food and beverage outlets, you’ll need at least a day to explore here. Be sure to wander by the illuminated Dubai Aquarium, a key focal point holding 10 million litres of water and over 33,000 species. Outside of the mall witness The Dubai Fountain in all its glory shooting water jets as high as 150 metres. ARABIAN DESERT – No visit to the Emirate is complete without a visit to the desert. Be it dune bashing, sand-boarding or a night under the stars, the Arabian Desert offers a truly magnificent experience. The stunning dunes and ancient landscape will truly take your breath away. DUBAI CREEK & SOUQS – Enjoy an abra (wooden water taxi) ride across Dubai Creek for as little as NZD$1, before heading into the spice, textile and gold souqs, an Arabic term for marketplace. Commonly where the locals shop - be prepared to haggle! The bustling atmosphere, delicate silks, glittering gold, pungent perfumes and aroma of spices in the air will definitely showcase a different world.
3