Dubai is a magical place – everything is decadent and over-the-top. It’s like no place on Earth! Its dreamy surroundings are becoming increasingly popular with tourists for its Instagrammable architecture and incredible culture. Because yes, Dubai is so much more than skyscrapers and palm trees – it has plenty to offer, and you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained throughout your stay. There are so many reasons to visit Dubai, and you’re about to discover why it should be your next destination!
So many things to do, so little time. There is something for everyone – whether you’re looking for a flashy vacation or something a little more stripped back and adventurous, you’ll find something to make your trip truly spectacular. Read on to find out why everyone is flying over to Dubai for their vacation!
Its luxury
One reason to visit Dubai is because it is one of the most luxurious locations in the world. It has impressive experiences that are not only Instagram-worthy, but will also create amazing memories. Dubai’s five-star hotels come with helipads, so you can fly to and from your resort in style. You can even fly in just for a tea! There is also HeliDubai, a VIP service that offers helicopter transfers to hotels, golf courses and even the mall.
As the city of luxury and sophistication, the hotels in Dubai will offer you an unforgettable experience. Expect high-quality spas, pools, jacuzzis – you name it, Dubai’s hotels have got it! Stay at the Park Hyatt Hotel, with its own golfing green and yacht club. Admire its beautiful views of the marina and dine at some of the world’s finest restaurants. Or Atlantis the Palm, on Palm Island, has over 1500 rooms and you can even see marine life swim past your bedroom window.
If you’re a shopaholic, then you’ll love Dubai’s malls. Like Dubai itself, they are enormous, spectacular and striking. Its largest and most popular mall is the Dubai Mall. It has everything – from luxury brands, to kids brands, and even handicrafts. If you love your designer houses, then you can shop at Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga and Bvlgari.
Its food scene
Dubai is a melting pot of cuisines and cultures, so you are in for a treat when traveling here! There are so many fine dining restaurants waiting to be explored, such as Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen at Caesars Palace. You can taste his legendary English cuisine in the heart of Dubai, with its spectacular views and luxurious setting. You can also enjoy delicacies on some amazing rooftop lounges with unmissable views.
The Mercury Lounge has a picture-perfect view of the Burj Khalifa and the Downtown district where you can enjoy Sicilian cuisine in an idyllic setting. 3 Fils is also one of Dubai’s best restaurants – in fact, it has made the world’s top 50 restaurants list for MENA. Enjoy harborside views while tasting delicious modern Asian cuisine.
Want to taste more street food? Al Labeeb Grocery is your one-stop shop for tasty treats! It’s a small Iranian grocery store that serves delicious regag bread, with Persian gulf fish sauce and an egg on top. The prices are affordable and you will love tasting this! Al Ustad Special Kebab is another place to visit. They are one of the most popular places to eat in Dubai, they are an institution! Their yogurt marinated kebabs are outstanding!
The Dubai Desert
Dubai Desert is another reason to visit Dubai. It is a symbol of old Arabian life, and tourists and locals alike love to visit it and make their mark. Many photography enthusiasts come here to take photos of the sunsets here in its atmospheric surroundings. You can go on a desert safari, which is one of the most popular and sought-after experiences in the United Arab Emirates. Go dune-bashing with your tour guides, and some experiences even offer a photo opportunity and a barbecue in the incredible location. You can even go camel riding and partake in traditional activities such as henna tattoos and shisha. What more could you ask for during your trip?
In the desert, you can see the UAE’s national bird, the falcon. There are many here to see, and the training of falcons is seen as a sport. Falconers bring their birds to the desert safaris, so you can even get a picture with the majestic bird!
At night time, the desert comes alive. Have dinner at a Bedouin camp before experiencing some traditional Arabian entertainment. Watch belly dancers and fire breathers as you take in the beautiful views.
Old Dubai
Old Dubai is another reason to visit Dubai. Take a step away from the modernity of Dubai with its skyscrapers and discover its past. The blend of modernity with Dubai’s ancient past is striking and unique. Walk along the creek’s banks with the modern landscapes on one side and the ancient architecture on the other. Walk through the city’s souks to pick up traditional souvenirs such as Arabian perfume, spices and textiles. You’ll love the markets of Deira – although they are usually packed, so we recommend visiting first thing in the morning or at the end of the day!
The gold souk is also a must-see – you will be dazzled by the amounts of gold here! You can see Dubai’s expertise in the jewelry industry, and buy some for yourself. The jewelry’s quality is certified by the Dubai government, so you know you are in good hands. You can shop through all the retail stores in the souk and find your new favorite accessories.
Its beaches
Dubai is known for its beautiful sandy shores and turquoise waters. With around 1000 km of shoreline, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to kick back and relax. Though Dubai is a luxurious destination, there are various free beaches that you and your travel companions can enjoy! Al Mamzar Park is more than just a beach – you can find grassy areas, cycling trails, a swimming pool, and even spots to start a barbecue! The waters are shallow too, so it’s the ideal location for a family day out.
Jumeirah Open Beach is also a jaw-dropping beach, with views of Dubai’s modern skyline. It has got a chilled atmosphere – if you’re looking for peace and quiet amongst Dubai’s busy city life, then you’re in luck! It also has a smooth track running along the beach – ideal for skateboarding, rollerblading or just going for your morning run.
One of Dubai’s most renowned beaches in La Mer. The beautiful location is lined with palm trees and quaint beach huts. The glistening blue waters are one of the biggest reasons to visit Dubai! Bored of the beach? You can try the retro cinema, the inflatable playground and even the water park!
Its diversity
With international tourists flocking to Dubai, the city has become more and more culturally diverse as the years pass. On top of that, around 90% of the population is international, counting over 200 nationalities. These expats positively impact everyday life in Dubai, and play a part in its diversity.
Dubai is a melting pot, and it is said that children that study here can study a curriculum similar to that of their home country thanks to the diversity of the education system. They don’t just learn the Dubai way of life, but that of their home country, giving them the best of both worlds. It is said that it is among the top 10 most multicultural cities in the world according to studies made by BBC Travel. It is also set to become one of the most culturally diverse cities by 2030.
Dubai is very cosmopolitan, and though it is an Islamic city, it caters for many religions, and has Churches, temples and other religious institutes. Religious freedom has been at the core of this city since the beginning, and continues to be today.
Its art scene
The art scene is another reason to visit Dubai – it is attracting creative talent worldwide, and it is the perfect platform to showcase new faces on the scene. Art Dubai is one of the biggest events in the city’s cultural calendar. It hosts 100 exhibitors from 44 countries, all showing off their amazing work. The new addition this year? A section dedicated to digital art. You can explore the galleries and even buy artwork using Cryptocurrency.
Art Jameel is an organization that supports artists, creative entrepreneurs and cultural-heritage projects. It is also a moment where the Jameel Prize is awarded to artists who explore traditional Islamic influences. Art Jameel can be found in the artsy area of Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz. There are plenty of galleries to wander around such as the Custot Gallery, The Third Line and 1×1 Gallery. You can also discover Dubai’s financial district of DIFC and its upmarket art galleries. The Opera Gallery is the home to up-and-coming contemporary artists.
Dubai also has a growing street art scene. City Walk Dubai is where you can find one of the city’s biggest street art projects – Dubai Walls. Works from Blek Le Rat, Beau Stanton and London Police can be found here, and the project’s goal was to bring together artists and residents to inspire tourists and locals.
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