Dubai travel guide
Meet DubaiDubai weather reportGetting into DubaiTop attractions in DubaiGetting around Dubai Where to eat in DubaiPage 2: More information on Dubai
Meet Dubai
Arabs are ‘by nature continent’ according to Lawrence of Arabia, but when it comes to Dubai, austerity is a little known word. Apart from the modesty that comes with being counted among the seven United Arab Emirates, this particular emirate deserves inclusion among world’s seven wonders for its grasp on the art of creating luxury.
Barely known to the Western world no less than one decade ago, Dubai has succeeded in transforming itself from barren desert to urban chic in no time at all. Today, not only is it mentioned in the same breath as its other ‘IT’ counterparts Milan, Paris, New York, and Los Angeles, the emirate is also a popular tourist hub preferred by the A list likes of David Beckham, Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Catherine Zeta Jones, and Michael Douglas. It also played host to the UK’s most recent version of X Factor where many a singing hopeful performed in front of none other than the Minogue sisters themselves.
As with many countries in the Middle East, Dubai used to be conservative and to a certain degree remains so even today, particularly among its local population. However, this conservatism is cast mainly into the country’s shadows while its surface glitters with opulence, wild nightlife, a growing repertoire of world class restaurants, and some of the best shopping known to this planet. Juxtaposed by the offerings of a Vegas style city life, breathtaking beach resorts, exotic desert excursions, and indoor ski villages, Dubai is an experience not to be missed.
And while it is largely about ‘flash’, authenticity and culture can be found within the traditional architecture of its old town, and the buzz of its gold souks. All this is set against the backdrop of year round sunshine and old, Arabian hospitality.
So if you’re feeling sufficiently inspired to head in that direction, the best time to visit falls between end of September through mid-December, and March through end of May.
Dubai weather report
With an average winter temperature of 25°C and with almost no rainfall during the whole year, Dubai enjoys an extremely dry and warm climate. Summers can be extremely hot and incredibly humid, with the highest temperatures climbing to over 40°C.
For the latest weather info use the Pampo weather forecast tool.
Getting into Dubai
Dubai International Airport is the busiest in the Middle East, serving not only the emirate of Dubai, but also most other surrounding emirates. From Terminal 3 (and soon from Terminal 1) you can take the local tube to get into the city. Terminal 1 also offers direct airside access to Terminal 3.
If your arrival is through Terminal 2, and you’d like access to the tube, you can take the shuttle bus to reach the other terminals. Alternatively you can opt to take public buses (routes 401 and 402 to Al Sabkha and Al Ghubaiba bus terminals) or take a public taxi outside of the airport.
Top attractions in Dubai
Even if materialism has not left Dubai unscathed, its people remain very spiritual, and morality is prevalent throughout its diverse pockets. A visit to the various Islamic sights will usher you into a world of divine sophistication. Places to visit include the Jumeirah Mosque. Available for tours to non-Muslims, it serves as one of the most stunning examples of Arab architecture in the Middle East. For those seeking culture rather than religion, the Dubai Museum offers a short 3D presentation of the emirate’s culture and history.
While it does present some historical attractions, Dubai is more famous for its recent achievements. The Mall of the Emirates is one of the biggest of its kind in the world, and practically a planet unto itself. Hosting not only the world’s most renowned brand names and shopping outlets such as Galeries Lafayette, it is also home to one of the most unexpected spectacles to be found in a desert climate; an indoor centre for ski!
Even if you have never heard the name, the size and the shape of Burj-Al Arab must ring a bell given that this is the first seven-star hotel in the world, and one of the most recognisable buildings in the Middle East. For non-residents a reservation is required in order to visit the hotel and enjoy its lavish bars and restaurants, one of which is underwater!
Artificial palm-shaped islands are another iconic hallmark of Dubai’s opulence, a miracle comparable only to emblematic monuments of human creativity such as the dams and floodgates in the Netherlands. A lot of British and Hollywood celebrities have invested in the bungalows located on these islands.
Dubai also has some of the world’s sandiest (albeit salty) beaches, blessed with year round sunshine. Water sport facilities are available everywhere and scuba diving fans will love the area’s ubiquitous coral reefs.
For adventure-lovers, a Desert Safari with a trained Desert Driver and a giant SUV would be an unforgettable experience. Sand dunes are abound, so be prepared for wild dune-bashing, a sport not recommended for those who are prone to car sickness.
Getting around Dubai
Public transport facilities include a recently built, above ground tube system, and public bus services, which are accessible using a daily pass for unlimited rides. Both are generally cheap and convenient, even if the buses are somehow infrequent, and the tube service is not yet fully operational to all locations.
Taxis are also cheap, usually charging fixed prices for the most popular sights. However, the most convenient mode of transport is by car, so if your budget allows for rental, it is highly recommended with parking being very easy, but watch out for the traffic as it can become heavy.
Finally, a trip through the Dubai Creek with an abra (local ferry) will give you a general overview of the city and a romantic memory to take back home.
Where to eat in Dubai
Culinary options in Dubai are plentiful, ranging from traditional Arabic food to the most renowned nouvelle cuisine restaurants. The higher-end venues require booking and are usually located in 5-star hotels with a few exceptions here and there.
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If you are curious to find out how Arabic fast food tastes, the ubiquitous Shawarma is a must, famous for the homonymous snack (Arabic pita bread stuffed with meat or vegetables and several sides)
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Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant serves all kinds of cuisines for relatively good prices, but its strongest asset is the revolving motion of the restaurant offering panoramic views of the city
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Wafi Gourmet is a marvellous Lebanese restaurant, serving delicious falafel, among other dishes, on an extraordinarily romantic balcony
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Kiku at Le Meridien hotel is a renowned Japanese restaurant recommended for the sushi lovers who can afford its intimidating prices
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Café Chic also located at Le Meridien hotel serves the most up-to-date gourmet recipes of French nouvelle cuisine
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Al Mahara at Burj Al Arab hotel is the place to be for seafood lovers and socialites craving celeb spotting
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Sho Cho’s lounge, bar and restaurant is an experience not to be missed. Located in the stunning surroundings of Dubai Marina, it offers sumptuous dishes that will leave your taste buds salivating long after you depart
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Fluka also located in Dubai Marina, is a Lebanese seafood restaurant with a very authentic ‘resort’ atmosphere and imaginative dishes