Boasting beaches, biggest-in-the-world structures, elegant dining establishments, and luxury hotels, Dubai is one of the most beloved travel destinations in the world. You have probably heard friends or family come back from a trip to the UAE’s biggest emirate talking about their incredible experience. And, as the word spreads, more and more people are going to be finding ways to experience Dubai for themselves.
If you are considering it, here are five excellent reasons to visit Dubai this year.
1. The Unique Experiences
Regardless of whether you are visiting Dubai on your honeymoon, for a family vacation, or as a solo traveler, Dubai is overflowing with unique experiences for you to fill your itinerary with.
From desert safari tours that take you dune bashing to zip-lining over the Dubai Fountain, diving into the Dubai Mall Aquarium, and skiing in the indoor ski area in the colossal Mall of the Emirates, Dubai is as unique as it is fascinating.
While in Dubai, spend an evening aboard a dhow cruise (you can have dinner on it), from which you will catch glimpses of the sites of Old Dubai from a different perspective.
2. The Food
The traditional food of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates is known as Emirati cuisine and dates back thousands of years. As a blend of various Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines, the food in Dubai is unlike any other, so in addition to enjoying classic fare from the top luxury hotel restaurants, make sure to seek out establishments that offer top-notch local cuisine as well. The Emirati family style of eating is with your hands, with many plates, all at the same time.
Comprised of grilled chicken or lamb, shawarma is the most common street food in Dubai. But, while in the area, you should also try:
– Khanfaroosh, a fancy and fragrant pancake
– Camel, a typical and trendy dish that tends to be on the cheaper end of meal choices
– Machboos, a casserole filled with lamb or chicken and rice
– Hareis, slow-cooked wheat and lamb
3. The Luxury Hotels
Luxury is the name of the game in Dubai, and that is indeed true when it comes to its accommodation offerings.
In Dubai, luxury hotels are located by the beach, downtown, and in the Creekside (the old district of Dubai), giving you plenty of options for locations that are right for you and your experience.
When searching for a place to lay your head at night, make sure to look for the best hotel deals in Dubai. You will be amazed at the options of luxury hotels, and there is no doubt that you will find something that matches your travel style perfectly.
4. The Culture
The culture in Dubai is second to none. Religion plays a vital role in the culture of Dubai, and almost every neighborhood possesses its own mosque, where Muslims come for prayer five times every day.
While in Dubai, you must visit Jumeirah Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world. Additionally, the Bur Dubai Grand Mosque is one of the famous shrines in Dubai due to it being considered an architectural marvel.
Other cultural experiences you must have include visiting the Dubai Dancing Fountain where a daily show offers an exceptional visual treat. Old Dubai is where you can perceive an authentic cultural experience and the traditional markets in Deira are overflowing with goods that serve as a reminder of a bygone era.
To brush up on your Dubai history, head to the Dubai Creek to educate yourself on this area’s reputation as a central seafaring trading hub for pearls, fish, and textiles.
5. The Shopping
Dubai is renowned for its world-class shopping. While the souks are the perfect place to find a souvenir and traditional gifts if you are looking for something a little bit more modern, head to The Dubai Mall — one of the largest and fully air-conditioned malls in the world. Here you will find all major designer brands, as well as smaller, more boutique options.
It is in your best interest to arrive as early as possible and to be fueled up for a long day of spending your hard-earned cash!
When planning your Dubai itinerary, remember that in the UAE, Friday and Saturday are considered the weekend, so on Fridays, many places have different opening hours.
Have you ever been to Dubai? What were some of your favorite experiences? Let us know in the comments below!
AUTHOR BIO
Habib Khan is a seasoned Hotelier, currently the CEO of Planet Hospitality and General Manager of Arabian Courtyard Hotel and Spa. Khan has more than 30 years of diversified international experience in the hospitality industry. He is an expert in developing, transforming, and managing hotels, with an ability to analyze and solve problems in a challenging work environment.