Dubai Escapes

Dubai is a city and emirate in the United Arab Emirates known for luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture and a lively nightlife scene. Burj Khalifa, an 830m-tall tower, dominates the skyscraper-filled skyline. At its foot lies Dubai Fountain, with jets and lights choreographed to music. On artificial islands just offshore is Atlantis, The Palm, a resort with water and marine-animal parks.

Dubai is located on the Eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, in the south west corner of the Arabian Gulf. It is extremely well known for its warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage, and the Emirati people are welcoming and generous in their approach to visitors. With year-round sunshine, intriguing deserts, beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels and shopping malls, fascinating heritage attractions and a thriving business community, Dubai receives millions of leisure and business visitors each year from around the world. The local currency is the dirham, which is pegged at AED 3.67 to 1 US dollar. Dubai is tolerant and cosmopolitan and all visitors are welcome. However, Islam is a way of life in the city, and therefore tourists should adopt a certain level of cultural and religious sensitivity for the duration of their stay.

 

Attractions: Although Dubai is seen as a relatively young destination, it has a fascinating history and a vibrant heritage that offers visitors an intriguing glimpse into Arabian culture. A good place to start exploring the history and heritage of Dubai is the Dubai Museum: it is located inside Al Fahidi Fort, one of Dubai’s oldest buildings dating back to 1787. There are other museums in Dubai and in surrounding emirates that also offer important insights into the history and growth of the city and of the United Arab Emirates. More..

 

Culture & Heritage: Courtesy and hospitality are among the most highly prized of virtues in the Arab world, and visitors will be charmed by the warmth and friendliness of the people. Dubai ’s culture is rooted in Islam, providing a strength and inspiration that touches all aspects of everyday life. Virtually every neighbourhood has its own mosque, where the faithful congregate for prayer five times every day. One of the largest and most beautiful mosques is Jumeirah Mosque- a spectacular example of modern Islamic architecture. More..

 

Dubai Nature : Dubai, with an area of 3,885 square kilometres, is the second largest emirate in the UAE. Situated on the banks of the Dubai Creek, a natural inlet from the Gulf which divides the city into the Deira district to its north and Bur Dubai on its south. More ….

BURJ KHALIFA – DISCOVER A TRULY UNIQUE VIEW FROM THE TOP

Standing 828 metres high, the Burj Khalifa is hard to miss. The world’s tallest tower naturally dominates the Dubai skyline, but the true majesty of the building is best appreciated up close or, even better, from inside. On a clear day, the view from the observation deck on level 124 is absolutely stunning, topped only by the view from the luxurious At The Top Sky Lounge on the 148th floor. And for those who would like to linger for a meal in the clouds, Atmosphere on level 122 is the place to be.

 

THE DUBAI MALL – REDEFINE THE MEANING OF SHOPPING

Right next to the Burj Khalifa is The Dubai Mall. To call the sprawling development merely a shopping mall is doing it a disservice. Even an entire day spent here isn’t enough to see it all. Along with its 1,200-plus shops and 150 restaurants, the venue is home to an indoor theme park, an ice rink, a huge indoor waterfall, a choreographed outdoor fountain and the giant Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.

 

THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN – WITNESS WATER DANCE IN THE CENTRE OF DOWNTOWN DUBAI

The Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa and just outside the doors of the famous Dubai Mall, features the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. This popular dancing water show jets water streams as high as 150 metres in the air. Each colourful, illuminated jet sways in time to various musical numbers from around the world, producing what has become the one of the most popular shows in Dubai. Two showings occur in the afternoon (1pm and 1:30pm), except on Fridays (1:30pm to 2pm) and evening displays begin at sundown and take place every 30 minutes until the final song plays at 11pm.

 

PALM JUMEIRAH – A PALM-SHAPED ISLAND

A man-made island in the shape of a palm tree – there’s a reason why locals say ‘only in Dubai.’ Palm Jumeirah is one of the largest artificial islands in the world and a triumph of human ingenuity. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the Palm’s vast array of high-end hotels, including the Waldorf Astoria, Fairmont, One&Only, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray and, perhaps most notably, the iconic Atlantis, The Palm. And with a monorail running down the ‘trunk’ that connects to the mainland’s tram system, getting there couldn’t be easier.

 

DUBAI CREEK – ANCIENT TRADE ROUTES

Dubai may be famous for the glitz and glamour of its sky-high towers, but the real heart of the city is, and always will be, the Creek. The saltwater estuary is the original site where the Bani Yas tribe settled, and its waters were vital for what used to be Dubai’s main forms of economy: pearl diving and fishing. Today, the area is awash with the history of the emirate, as it’s home to the Dubai Museum as well as the labyrinthine alleyways of the gold, spice and textile souks. While at the Creek, a ride across the water on a traditional abra is a must, and at an unbelievable AED1 per ticket, it’s easily the best value tourist attraction in the city.

 

THE WALK AND BEACH AT JBR – MEANDER THROUGH DUBAI’S URBAN BEACH DISTRICT

For those who like to shop, dine, see a movie and go to the beach all in one place, consider a trip to The Beach opposite JBR. With guest DJs pumping out the tunes on weekends, a regular open-air cinema and a popular water park to entertain the little ones for an hour or two, JBR is always buzzing with activity.

 

DUBAI MARINA- STUNNING CITYSCAPE

Look into the future at the world’s largest man-made marina, Dubai Marina. Marvel at some of the world’s tallest apartment buildings as you stroll along Dubai Marina Walk or see it from the water as you set sail from the Dubai Marina Yacht Club.

 

KITE BEACH – HIT THE WAVES ON THIS VIBRANT STRETCH OF SAND

The aptly-named Kite Beach is the perfect spot to test out your watersports skills, but there’s plenty to do out of the water at this popular spot, too! Grab a smoothie from one of the many open-air cafes and restaurants just steps from the beach, watch bikers and skaters fly by at the newly finished skate park or get into a game of volleyball. With plenty of beach activities, plus an awesome view of the Burj Al Arab, it’s easy to spend the whole day here.

 

THE DESERT – A MAJESTIC LANDSCAPE

Less than 20 minutes driving from the modernist streets of Downtown Dubai, you can experience the marvels of the Arabian Desert, the original tourist attraction of Dubai. Take a desert safari Dubai-style with off-roading, quad biking and sandboarding followed by traditional barbeques, henna and camel rides. Or just drive out and experience the wonder of the desert on an adventure of your own. Those looking for luxury should indulge in a Heritage Dinner Safari. Can’t get enough in a day? Treat yourself to an unforgettable night amid the dunes at the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa or Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa.

 

AL FAHIDI – UNCOVER DUBAI’S PAST

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. Best seen walking, this area offers a nostalgic view of a bygone era with traditional wind towers and a maze of winding alleyways. You can visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) where guests can take part in Arabic classes, heritage tours and guided mosque visits to better appreciate the local culture. After exploring, take an atmospheric abra ride to the souks on the other side of the Creek.

 

DUBAI CANAL – TAKE A RIDE ON DUBAI’S NEWEST WATERWAY

Dubai Water Canal is a 3.2km long waterway extending from the Creek in Old Dubai through Business Bay before finding its way to the Arabian Gulf. Dubai Canal will create 80,000 sqm of waterfront public space and facilities, to include new recreational areas like the 3km running track and 12km cycling path. The canal’s beautiful waterfall can be viewed from Dubai’s Business Bay or you can take in views of the canal from some of Dubai’s newest hotels, like W Hotel and the St Regis. The Atrium is a series of five restaurants that are also situated off the canal’s waterfront.

 

MADINAT JUMEIRAH – PAST MEETS PRESENT

For an experience that marries tradition and luxury, come to Madinat Jumeirah. Literally translated as ‘City of Jumeirah’ this complex is inspired by an ancient citadel. It encloses luxury hotels, private enclaves built in the traditional style, the world-class Talise Spa, the Madinat Souk, Madinat Theatre, and more than 40 restaurants and lounges. You can also explore on traditional wooden abras to appreciate the waterways and architecture.

 

DUBAI OPERA – CENTRE OF CULTURE

The Dubai Opera situated in the new “Opera District” in the heart of Dubai offers an enticing schedule which can be likened to that of London’s West End or Manhattan’s Broadway. With views of the Dubai Fountain and next to the Burj Khalifa, the building was inspired by the shape of Arabian Dhow ships and is sure to catch your eye. While the rear of the building arches upwards like a hull and is used as a foyer, taxi rank and car park, the stage area is designed in such a way that it can easily be converted into three different event platforms: theatre, hall or concert hall.

 

IMG WORLDS OF ADVENTURE – INDOOR THEME PARK

Fun, excitement, speed – and even 5D, you can expect all this in the enormous theme park, which is the size of 28 football pitches. With the most up-to-date and exciting rides, IMG Worlds of Adventure will bring your favourite characters to life. There are themed rides for younger visitors with Ben 10, Gumball, the Powerpuff Girls and LazyTown, while older visitors can delve into the world of Marvel heroes: Spider-Man, Hulk, Iron Man, Thor and The Avengers. You will also come across life-size animated dinosaurs in the Lost Valley. The range of entertainment promises round the clock fun for the whole family, and there are also plenty of restaurants and shops.

 

CITY WALK – OUTDOOR SHOPPING

Stretching over 13,000 square metres, City Walk is reminiscent of European pedestrian precincts offering a pleasant vehicle-free stroll. Take a walk along tree-lined avenues with shops and restaurants. Look upwards and discover skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa in Dubai’s city centre. There are also fountains, children’s playgrounds and plenty of open-air seating.

 

DUBAI PARKS AND RESORTS – THEME PARK THRILLS

Dubai is in the process of becoming a real entertainment paradise − thanks to the forthcoming opening of the Dubai Parks and Resorts. Children will not be able to contain their excitement in the labyrinth of enormous theme parks such as Motiongate, Bollywood Park, and Legoland theme and waterpark, while the adults can relax on Riverland Boulevard which is home to restaurants and exciting entertainment programmes. The luxury Polynesian-style hotel, The Lapita, is situated in the theme park offering guests easy access to the facilities on offer.

 

DUBAI FRAME – A TALE OF TWO CITIES

Dubai Frame is one of the newest additions to the city’s skyline and represents a remarkable engineering feat. Situated in Dubai’s Zabeel Park and directly between old and new Dubai, the towering structure offers sweeping panoramic views of the city from 150m high. One of its most amazing features is the state-of-the-art clear glass bridge connecting parallel vertical towers to create the shape of a picture frame. Dubai Frame has quickly become a must-see attraction for the city’s visitors and residents alike.

 

DUBAI SAFARI – WALK ON THE WILD SIDE

Featuring the largest and most diverse number of wildlife species in the UAE, Al Warqa’s Dubai Safari is home to 2,500 animals. Adventurers can encounter monkeys, lions, giraffes, crocodiles and a whole lot more as they explore the park’s four themed sections: the Arabian, Asian, African and Safari Village. While its solar-powered driving vehicles and world’s first drive-through crocodile exhibit are impressive feats, the park has big plans in store as it aims to provide a safe haven for 5,000 animals by 2020.

  • SAFARI TOURS A trip to the desert should top your ‘to do’ list when you’re in Dubai. Select from a range of unforgettable experiences offered by an award-winning desert safari operator. With a choice of morning, afternoon or overnight dune safaris, the timeless enjoyment of the desert takes shape at any time.
    • Sunset Safari – Few things can compare to the magic of the desert sunset. Experience an afternoon dune drive to our authentic private Bedouin desert camp. Be greeted by a welcoming bonfire and tents with comfortable cushions and Persian carpets. Enjoy a belly dance performance, ride a camel, unwind with shisha or get a traditional henna hand-painting. Your safari includes a delicious barbecue, freshly baked bread, Arabic coffee and desserts.
    • Overnight Safari – The ultimate all-inclusive, ‘glamourous-camping’ experience in the heart of the pristine dunes in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Leave your worries behind for a tranquil overnight getaway under the stars.
    • Private Dune Dinner Safari – Share a truly unique experience when your private dining room rests on top of a dune. Enjoy a chauffeur drive to a perfect Arabian setting where your personal chef awaits. Take in the contrasting landscape and relax as a memorable night unfolds. This tour is ideal for a birthday, anniversary or an engagement celebration.
    • Morning dune safari – Enjoy a morning in the desert with plenty to see and do. Leave the city behind and explore the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.
    • Mountain Safari – Take an off-road adventure on a trail through the Hajar Mountains stopping at archaeological, traditional and quaint areas on the way to the east coast of the UAE.

     

    CITY TOURS

    Choose from a variety of breathtaking tours of Dubai and the surrounding Emirates. Enjoy the comfort of quality transportation and multilingual guides as you explore the majestic United Arab Emirates..

     

    • Traditional Dubai City Tour – This is a must-do tour in Dubai! Be fascinated by Dubai’s rich history and tradition on a tour around the Al Fahidi Cultural Neighbourhood, Dubai Creek and the Gold and Spice Souks. Explore the Dubai Museum to learn about times gone by, and cross the Dubai Creek in a traditional abra (water taxi).
    • Full Day Dubai City Tour – See the traditional side of Dubai in the morning and contrast this with the modern city sights in the afternoon – with lunch at the 7-star Burj Al Arab hotel. See the Jumeriah Mosque, Dubai Museum, Al Fahidi area, Dubai Museum and the Gold and Spice Souks in the morning. Stop for a three-course lunch at the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel before taking a tour of the ‘new’ areas of Dubai from the Lost Chamber Aquarium, Dubai Marina and DownTown Dubai in the afternoon.
    • Private Dubai Shopping Tour – Indulge in retail therapy from cosmopolitan malls housing some of the finest international brands to traditional souks that display everything from precious gold to Persian rugs. Choose from over 10 large shopping malls or seek some of the most irresistible deals, the electronic souk, material souk and the world famous Gold souk.
    • Sharjah Heritage Tour – Explore the museums and cultural sites of Sharjah, rich in art and tradition on a full-day private tour. Stroll along cobbled streets and stop at cultural sites and interesting museums. Your guide will customise the tour to best suit everyone, possibly visiting The Sharjah Heritage Museum, the Al Mahatta Aviation Museum, and the Sharjah Maritime Museum and more.
    • Full Day Dubai & Sharjah Heritage – Visit the traditional Dubai area close to Dubai Creek stopping at the Al Fahidi areas, the Dubai Museum and crossing the Dubai Creek by water taxi (abra); the tour continues to the Spice and Gold Souks. From old Dubai to the new, lunch is at the 7-star Burj Al Arab hotel where a three-course lunch is served. In the afternoon, visit the cultural sites and museums of Sharjah.
    • East Coast Tour East Coast Tour – Discover a full variety of landscapes on this tour. Pass through desert plains, Wadis and the rugged Hajar Mountains that emerge at the scenic East Coast. Visit a number of interesting tourist destinations enroute – the famous Masafi region in the mountains, UAE’s oldest mosque and stop for lunch (not included) with an opportunity to swim in the ocean.
    • Abu Dhabi Tour – Explore the sights and landmarks of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, on a full day tour from Dubai. From the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to Yas Island, this tour takes in all of the capital’s sights.
    • Private Al Ain Tour – Known as the ‘Garden City of the Gulf’, Al Ain is characterised by tree-lined avenues, oases and traditional falaj irrigation systems. Take a full day tour to explore the area.

     

    DAY TOURS

    Choose from an exhilarating variety of day tours, whether it is viewing historic sights from a traditional Arabian Dhow or unrivalled views of the Dubai Desert from a hot air balloon, find yourself being completely spoiled for choice.

     

    • Traditional Dhow Dinner Cruise – Experience the mesmerizing sights and sounds of the Dubai Creek as you set sail on a traditional Arabian Dhow. Cruise past the many heritage sights and modern skyscrapers along the coastline while admiring the architecture of iconic landmarks including the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, the Chamber of Commerce building and Sheikh Saeed’s house, the birth-place of Sheikh Rashid. Savour a sumptuous Arabic buffet on board.
    • Helicopter Ride – Get a panoramic bird’s eye view of Dubai’s spectacular landmarks while enjoying a private helicopter ride. Watch the future of the city unfold right beneath for an unforgettable experience.
    • Private Yacht Charter – Whether seeking a relaxing and peaceful escape or simply an opportunity to get closer to Dubai’s amazing offshore islands, a yacht charter gives guests the perfect opportunity to cruise the blue waters of the Arabian Gulf.
    • Seaplane Flight – Embark on the Seawings Silver air tour, a 40-minute “dock to dock” excursion. Soak in unprecedented views of The Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa, The World Islands, Burj Al Arab, the Dubai Creek and numerous other exciting landmarks.
    • Camel Polo – Unique to Arabia, Camel Polo is a novel team sport, derived from the age-old game of kings, but with a distinct twist. Ideal for corporate team building or as a leisure activity with friends and family, Camel Polo can accommodate groups of between 8 and 60.
    • Golf Tours – Dubai plays host to some of the most spectacular golf courses in the region. Enjoy teeing off amidst lush greens and meandering fairways that pose a challenging experience for any level of golfer, even the professionals. With established relationships with all the golf courses in the UAE, we can cater for individuals and groups alike.
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