The ‘City of Gold’
Dubai, the city with and glitz on a grand scale known as one of the most luxurious destinations in the world. With sun all year round, mesmerizing skyscrapers, vast sand dunes and deserts, stunning wide sandy beaches, and shopping galore, there is something for everyone. There are not many places in the world where you can sunbathe the bar pool in 30⁰C heat, then hit the ski slopes in the afternoon and finally watch the sunset in the marina or sand dunes. The city can fulfil all tastes and this guide will show that. This Dubai guide will recommend the best experiences and must-see attractions so you can plan the perfect vacations whether that is for families, couples, or honeymooners.
Dubai for the Adventurer:
Ski Dubai:
With 6,000 tons of snow, chair lifts and snow penguins, Dubai holds the third largest indoor ski slope in the Middle East. The sub-zero fake mountain has heaps of activity packages to choose from including skiing, bobsledding and snowboarding. You can have the option to bring your own equipment if you are an avid skier, but Ski Dubai gives you the option to rent boots, skis and helmets all included in the price. Package prices range from the ‘Snow Daycation Pass’ at AED 275 (£55.41)to ‘Snow Premium’ at AED 490 (£98.74) which includes lessons, a free meal, hot chocolate and unlimited rides.
Wild Wadi:
Offering over 30 rides in an Aladdin style village, this water park is an ideal setting designed for those of all ages. Thrill-seekers can try the Tantrum Alley or Jumeirah Sceirah (one of the tallest free-fall water slides outside America) whilst others looking to relax a little can take the lazy river. Entry prices range from height and can start from AED 284 (£57.23).
Red Dunes Quad Bike Experience:
Spend an evening sandboarding or quad biking down the dunes whilst the sun sets for an ultimate taste of adventure. As prices start from AED 297.76 (£60.00) This is great to escape from the crowds of the bug city whilst taking in the natural beauty of one of the biggest sand dunes in the UAE.
Dubai for the Foodie:
When it comes to food, Dubai restaurants create an immersive experience from astonishing views, unique décor, prestigious chefs and unforgettable experiences. Here is a small list of some of the best places to eat in Dubai:
Pierchic — some of the finest seafood and Italian food in the city, offering views of the gulf and Burj Al Arab. An intimate and romantic experience.
Buddha-Bar Dubai — Located in the Grosvenor House hotel with its elective atmosphere and on-site DJ, this restaurant offers a fusion of sushi and Thai food that is known for being one of Dubai’s nightlife hotspots.
Ristorante L’ Olivo at Al Mahara — For an incredible underwater dining experience, you should try the Al Mahara which is considered the best seafood restaurant in the city.
CÉ LA VI — Overlooking downtown Dubai and one of the greatest views of the Burj Khalifa, the restaurant lies 220 metres in the air with infinity pools and endless events making it one of the most fashionable places in town. The food is a fusion of dishes from the regions of Southeast Asia, with the brand hosting global venues such as Singapore, Tokyo and Shanghai.
Dubai for the Hotel Goer:
Jumeriah Beach Hotel:
One of Dubai’s original beach hotels is hard to beat, with a perfect location and view of the Burj Al Arab and only a 10-minute walk from the Madinat, a resort full of restaurants, souks, pools and malls. The service and facilities are faultless, with a full renovation creating new areas for villas, contemporary interior, and private butler service.
Dubai for the Avid Tourist:
Burj Khalifa:
With the city hosting some of the best architectural man-made wonders, visiting the worlds tallest building is a no brainer. Soaring at over 828 meters with 160 floors, almost twice the size of the Empire State Building. The observation deck offers an immense experience, looking over and learning about the architectural history of the entire city. Prices start from AED 152 and are based on 1–2-hour slots.
Dubai for the sun worshipper:
Dubai is known for its white, fine-sand beaches that stretch for tens of miles off of the warm blue Persian Gulf. However, it should be noted that most of these beaches are private for resorts and residential communities only, there are few such as La Mer, offering water parks, beach clubs and sun lounge rentals.
Dubai for the Shopaholic:
Dubai Mall:
This mall downtown is any shopper’s heaven with over 1300 shops ranging in pretty much anything you can think of. Even if you are not interested in buying anything, the facilities are well worth the visit with aquariums, cinemas, ice rinks, fountains and music venues.
