World of Luxury Travel
United Arab Emirates
Attractions in Dubai
hotels in Dubai
There isn't much in Dubai that isn't newly glistening. Even the traditional souks that attract thousands of visitors each year are packed with up-to-the-minute gadgets and the latest designer wear. Split into two by a long creek, the city is best seen from a water taxi, giving an opportunity to admire the modern, palatial architecture: the hallmark of a successful Arab state. Or indulge a little more on an aerial tour over this picturesque city and waterfront by helicopter, airplane, or hot air balloon. Dubai is a treasure trove of historical attractions and there is perhaps no better place to delve into the land's past than at the Dubai Museum housed beneath the 180-year-old Al Fahidi Fort in Bur Dubai. The Bastakiya district is a step back in time, with traditional courtyard houses and wind towers. Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum's House is one of the oldest houses in the city, as well as one of the best examples of traditional Middle Eastern architecture. Built entirely of stone along medieval Fatimid lines, the Jumeirah Mosque and its two minarets are unmistakable. Other historical attractions in the city include the Grand Mosque, the Juma Al-Majid Cultural and Heritage Centre, the Dubai Heritage Village, the Tower of Arabs and Majil's Gallery. Of course Dubai has a multitude of superb outdoor attractions, from championship quality golf courses and spas to water sports and desert adventures to be enjoyed. Spectators can enjoy a host of premier sporting events such as the world's richest horserace, the Dubai World Cup at Nad Al-Sheba; the Dubai Desert Classic Golf Tournament, the Dubai Tennis Championships, Rugby Sevens, the Emirates Grand Prix powerboating; the UAE Desert Challenge, and of course, camel racing. Enjoy a fascinating Abra water taxi ride across the Dubai Creek to the myriad shops at Deira's Shindagha quarter famous for its textiles and electrical goods. Dubai has been globally recognised as 'The Shopping Capital of the Middle East,' with all manner of local, regional and imported goods available. At Wafi City one can buy everything from carpets to cars, haute couture, perfumes, jewellery to electronics, furnishings and sports gear. Vibrant shopping festivals are also a special feature of the retail scene in Dubai, and it offers one of the premier airport shopping facilities of any world airport. Dubai is popularly referred to as the 'City of Gold' because of its famed Gold Market, and shopping in all its forms - from vast malls to bustling markets - has long been one of Dubai's principal attractions. One popular legend suggests that the name 'Dubai' may have derived from 'Daba,' meaning a prospering or flourishing market. Dubai's famed markets are located on both sides of the creek, with the colourful Spice Market enticing shoppers with its exotic aromas, and the enormous Gold Souk dazzling with every form and standard of precious metals and glittering jewels. Families have much to enjoy in Dubai, from the 18-hectare Wonderland Park to Magic Planet at Deira City Centre shopping mall. The Wild Wadi Waterpark boasts 24 interconnected water rides, including the high-speed 'Jumeirah Sceirah'. Other children's attractions include the Dubai Zoo, the Encounter Zone, Jumeira Beach Park and Hatta Rock Pools. Dubai Museum Sheikh Saeed's House The Grand Mosque Juma Al-Majid Cultural and Heritage Centre Dubai Heritage & Diving Village Tower of Arabs Majlis Gallery Deira Covered Souk The Creek Wonderland Family Fun Park Magic Planet Wild Wadi Waterpark Dubai Zoo Encounter Zone Jumeira Beach Park Hatta Rock Pools |
