Dubai City Travel Guide

Desert Adventures in Old Arabia

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The timeless tranquillity of the desert gives way to the lively bustle of the souk and mega-malls of today’s Dubai, but it has not always been so. A few years ago this was a desert Sheikhdom hardly appearing on the traveller’s agenda. A few years and great vision has turned it into a bustling metropolis, home to the tallest building in the world and with a kaleidoscope of attractions.

The desert sands are still there and indeed in a single day the traveller can experience everything from rugged mountains to awe-inspiring sand dunes, sandy beaches and lush green parks to ancient houses with wind towers and ultra-modern hotels and shopping malls. A dynamic international business centre laid-back tourist escape Dubai is a city where the sophistication of the 21st century blends with traditional Arab style.

Attractions in Dubai City

Dubai’s attractions are surprisingly plentiful – yes there are great beaches and shopping but there is another side to the city. Divided into two parts by the Dubai Creek (take an abra or evening cruise to enjoy it at its best) both Deira and Bur Dubai has its share of fine mosques and busy souks. Here along the Creek dhows load and unload and still ply ancient trade routes to places as distant as India and East Africa.

Dubai has three main archaeological sites, at Al Ghusais, Al Sufooh and Jumeirah whilst in the old Bastakiya district narrow lanes and tall wind-towers gives a tantalising glimpse of what old Dubai was like – head to the east of Al Fahidi Fort for the largest concentration of traditional courtyard houses with wind towers.

Sheikh Saeed’s House is a fine example of regional architecture whilst one of the largest and most beautiful mosques is Jumeirah Mosque. Traditionally shopping in Arabia was done in the souq and Dubai has many like those in Deira where bags of spices, incense, rose petals and traditional medicinal products are stacked outside each stall. Gold prices here are among the lowest in the world. Modern attractions include the 18-hectare Wonderland family fun park with its wide range of water attractions, Dubai Zoo and the Wild Wadi – sure to keep kids amused for hours.

Outside the city the desert beckons and with wadi bashing almost a national pastime this along with a dhow cruise is a must-do activity when in the Emirate.

Activities in Dubai City

Allow several days to explore the city – a week would not be too long. A city tour is initially the best way to get to grips with what’s on offer, whilst a dhow cruise will allow a relaxing look at a different side of the city. Perhaps take a balloon ride or helicopter flights for another perspective on this cosmopolitan city then head in to the desert for 4WD safaris and a chance to do some sand boarding. Return to swim in the clear blue waters of the Gulf for a swim or head to Wonderland or the Wild Wadi for some family fun. Shop at night in this tax free paradise.

Those with time would do well to head 2 hours along the coat to Khasab in Oman for staggering mountains and great diving in the hidden gem that is the Musandam Peninsula – no-one returns disappointed from THIS trip!

Relaxing

The beaches of the big hotels are internationally famous, however there are great public beaches too – head to Al Mamzar Beach Park. A dhow cruise at night is relaxing and romantic and there any number of places to dance the night away.

Getting Around

Taxis are the best way to go – choose the comfortable, metered Dubai Taxis, easily recognised as they are painted an appropriate desert beige. A city tour is easily the best way to get your bearings and an abra, water-taxi, trip on Dubai Creek adds variety to this city of contrasts.

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