Dubai stands as one of the seven Emirates of the United Arab Emirates, flaunting its audacious man-made islands, the world’s largest shopping malls, and towering structures like the Burj Khalifa and the Mall of the Emirates.

Dubbed the priciest city in the Middle East, a trip to Dubai isn’t just a getaway—it’s a bold investment that will certainly drain your wallet, but are you willing to pay the price for luxury?

Nonetheless, there are countless adventures waiting for you in Dubai, from the heart-pounding excitement of dune bashing and the allure of camel riding to the irresistible temptation of shopping and indulging in the mouthwatering delights of Middle Eastern cuisine.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Dubai is an absolute playground between February and April, the only time when the sweltering heat takes a break and temperatures flirt in the 20s. But let’s be real—this is peak season, and you’ll pay a pretty penny for the privilege. If you’re keen on saving some cash think about visiting when the desert sun turns everything into a furnace. Just be ready for oppressive summer days where temperatures can skyrocket into the 40s, testing anyone’s limits.

SOME CONSIDERATIONS

Remember Dubai is a Muslim city therefore there are some rules to abide by. 

• Drinking: Avoid drinking alcohol or being drunk in public. It is not tolerated and can lead to jail time.
• Drinking: If you’re a smoker, avoid smoking in public as it can lead to fines.
• Affection: Kissing, holding hands or being cosy with your significant other can lead to arrest and imprisonment.
• Sex outside marriage. Having sex with someone you’re not married to can lead to severe criminal sanctions. 
• Homosexuality is illegal.
• Swearing and the such can lead to punishment.
• Swimwear: Don’t wear swimwear outside the beach, and in general you should keep it modest.

WHAT CAN DUBAI OFFER?

DUNE BUGGYING

Tread through the gritty, rust-coloured desert landscape of the UAE on a camel safari or dive headfirst into the adrenaline-pumping thrill of a fast-paced 4×4 off-road safari; Dubai’s desert is a playground for the adventurous at heart. Experience the electrifying dune bashing, revel in the lavish Dubai hospitality, and immerse yourself in the raw, authentic vibe of the Middle East like never before. There are various companies that offer these excursions however the number 1 company is Dune Buggy Dubai that have adventures from AED500 (GB£103)

SAND BOARDING

This isn’t just an adventure; this has to be one of the most exhilarating desert experiences you can have in Dubai! Much like the thrill of snowboarding, sandboarding is all about the rush of gliding and balancing on a wooden board as you soar down the slopes of a sand dune, feeling the exhilarating pull of gravity propelling you forward with unmatched speed!

Most sand dune adventures additionally incorporate a camel safari. Find your next adventure here.

DUBAI AQUARIUM

Dive in one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world and enjoy a thrilling encounter with sharks, octopi, sting rays and plenty of marine species.

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is the perfect place to get your first experience of scuba diving in a controlled environment. Walk through the largest underwater tunnel and explore the variety of colourful marine life at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Located in the middle of world’s largest shopping mall – Dubai Mall gives you an opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most fascinating underwater life. Visit their official website for tickets and packages.

ATLANTIS THE PALM

One of the most famous and luxurious entertainment resort in Dubai, Atlantis the Palm is situated in the heart of Dubai. Atlantis the Palm is one of the most luxurious hotels in Dubai as well as it is the unique ocean themed resort, that features a variety of entertainment facilities and marine adventure attractions for the people of all ages. The hotel is also home to one of the largest open air aquarium in the world, that features a plethora of marine animals in lagoons.

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JAMEIRAH MOSQUE

If you are not a Muslim, you may not know much about Islam religion and culture. A visit to the most photographed icons of the country, the Jumeirah Mosque is the only mosque in Dubai where non-Muslims can also enter. Visiting this mosque will give you great insights into Islamic culture and a greater understanding of its beliefs. Its snowy-white and intricately designed pair of slender minarets and roofline crowned with domes decorated with ornate carvings lit up against an evening sky. This beautiful formation is among the must-visit places in Dubai for the tourists.

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BURJ KHALIFA

Take the world’s high speed lift and enjoy the spectacular views of Dubai’ stunning skyline and its coastline from the observation deck on the 124th floor. Hold on to your breath, it takes only a few seconds. You feel the same sensation when ascending in an airplane were you feel your ears block. This experience, for me, was magical and one of the best entertainment options in Dubai especially in the backdrop of a magical sunset. For those who would like to linger for a meal in the clouds, the Sky Lounge on the 148th floor, is the place to head to. Tickets to ascend the tower begin at AED125 (GB£26)

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DUBAI CREEK

Dubai may be famous for the glitz and glamour of its skyscrapers, but the real gem of the city is, and always will be, the Creek.   The area is packed with the history of the Emirate, as it is home to the Dubai Museum, as well as the labyrinth alleyways of the gold, spice and textile souks.

If you would like a more relaxing tour, try a traditional Dhow Cruise, which offers cruises throughout the day and night.  Glide down the waterway and capture the magnificent skyline reflecting the sunlight during the day or magnificently illuminated at night. 

HOTELS OF DUBAI

Everywhere you navigate through Dubai is jaw dropping. Even the hotels are a tourist attraction in itself. Let’s explore a few of them:

Burj Al-Arab

Everybody who has ever heard of Dubai knows of the Burj al Arab –world’s first and only 7*  hotel and certainly one of the most photographed buildings in the world.  

Its sailboat shaped silhouette rising from its man-made island is a delight to the eyes. This luxurious hotel has various viewpoints from where you can click pictures of yourself, but one of the best is from the beach next to it, from where you will get a great photo with the Burj Al Arab in the background.  Do not miss its signature afternoon tea.

Atlantis

Located in the Palm Jumeirah, this is an amazing hotel and resort designed on the theme of Atlantis, the lost and mythical city. The hotel has over 1500 rooms and a dedicated theme park, Adventure Water Park. Regular concerts and all night parties are conducted at the Nasimi Beach. Enjoy world class dining which include a famous restaurant by the celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

is a luxury family beach resort that seeks to redefine the holiday experience, offering a host of family activities, leisure facilities and dining options to delight and inspire our guests.  The building has a striking wave like design, Jumeirah Beach Hotel is one of Dubai’s most stunning and instantly recognisable structures with blue plated glass that artfully reflects the waves of the ocean.

Grosvenor House Hotel

The hotel’s two glittering twin towers are among the most recognisable landmarks in Dubai: This amazing hotel has two iconic 45 storey towers and features over 700 rooms, suites and apartments.  Its location is ideal for tourist and business travellers who also get to experience the beach, gold clubs, Dubai Internet City, Media City and several shopping malls in the proximity.

Le Meridien

This is the hotel I chose to stay at for 5 days. The hotel is beautiful inside with huge chandeliers hanging from the foyer.  The rear of the hotel opens up to a stunning pool area, that inturn, rolls out onto its own beach.  This property is best suited for frequent travellers and businessmen who want to stay near the airport and enjoy the world class services and hospitality of Le Meridien brand.  Situated close to the airport, the Le Meridien  has over 750 hotel rooms and suites and 18 amazing restaurants and bars.

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SHOPPING IN DUBAI

Endless shopping, varied entertainment and fine dining – all at one place – Madinat Jumeirah.  Souk Madinat is a terrific marketplace with the feel of the by gone era, coupled with sweet fragrances and an authentic atmosphere. Take a stroll around numerous winding alleys as the market offers endless options to stroll through. Treat yourself with the best shopping experience where the atmosphere is filled with the aromas of the waterfront cafes, bars and restaurants.

Mall of The Emirates

Boasting of high-end shopping options for all tastes, Dubai is a city that has created a fantasy land of shopping malls showcasing everything under one place. At the Mall of the Emirates, you will find an incredible array of stores supplying a diverse selection of goods and services under one roof – teen fashion brands, electronics, accessories, jewelry, bags and books… anything you could possibly wish for!

Dubai isn’t one of my top places to visit in the world, in fact, sometimes I fail to comprehend why people flock to this destination year upon year. To me it has no character. It’s new age in style. What is lacks in historical architecture it does certainly make up in modern style, but for me, it’s not really my bag. However, it’s like anything else you have to experience it at least once in your lifetime.