A stunning proof for the power of modern humans can be found far from the Western civilization, yet it largely borrows from West to create a unique metropolis in the middle of arid lands. Dubai holidays represent an encounter with the refined delights and the discrete charm of the Arabic world.
Until not very long time ago a small village of fishers, Dubai has burst in 1970s as the ambition of local sheiks was heavily fueled by petrol. Getting richer and richer as the days went by, the sheiks had the power to think forward of a future when natural resource would be depleted in a land which was gifted only with sand and water. Their solution maybe seemed foolish at that moment, but came into reality: a city of leisure and business, built literally out of nothing … but money.
The basic principle was simple: all that was missing could be created. If there were no islands or mountains, that was no problem as humans can build them.
Accommodations and leisure
This city was meant to be a place of leisure and comfort so in Dubai it is very hard to find a modest accommodation ranked at 3 stars. And a little bit surprising, comfortable rooms with an Arabic charm are a lot cheaper on the edge of the desert than in Europe or United States. And if you are willing to spend some money for the best comfort possible in the world, then you can try Burj al Arab the only 7 stars accommodation on the planet.
You can enjoy some of the finest beaches on the coast of the Persian Gulf in the district called Jumeirah. Boat trips are a very good way to observe from the water two more traditional districts of the city, Deira and Bur Dubai.
Also you can take a taxi to explore the city, as sidewalks are rarely present so strolling by foot won’t be very pleasant.
Shopping and food
There are no taxes in the emirate of Dubai so the prices are very attractive. Places like Deira City Centre, Burjuman and Emirates Mall provide anything that you might possibly want. But for a more authentic experience you should rather try a traditional bazaar, the most spectacular one being Gold Souk where you can find all sorts of jewelries. If you are a real shopping fanatic, then you should know that shopping festivals are organized at the beginning of each year and in the summer.
The diversity of food dishes offered by big restaurants is quite amazing, all the cuisines in the world are available from local, to Asian and European. Choose a place with a fabulous location also, as the prices are more than reasonable.
Arabic charm
As Dubai is located in the Arabic Peninsula, a visit at the Bastakaya District is an absolute must. There you will discover the narrow streets and little fishermen houses, the so called “tourist village” renowned for its art galleries and also Sheikh Saeed House the former residence of the reigning family dating from the 18th century. Two mosques deserve special attention from the visitors: The Great Mosque in Bur Dubai with the tallest minaret in the city measuring 70 meters and with 45 domes of steel and glass, and The Jumeirah Mosque with its twin minarets.
You can’t leave Dubai without taking a taxi ride on Sheik Zayed Road, where all the skyscrapers are!