If there is one city in the world which has fascinated tourists from all across the world with its glitz, razmattazz, excellent infrastructure, culinary adventures, tourist friendliness, unbeatable experiences, offbeat adventure activities , it's without doubt, DUBAI.
One of the seven Emirates (kingdoms) of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai has for long been an international tourism icon basically for its ability to reinvent itself with newer tourism attractions every year and of course the seamless combination of the old Arab culture and heritage with the modern societal norms.
Dubai as a tourist destination is for everyone - School kids, Teenagers, honeymoon couples, senior citizens, corporates planning a conference, family reunions, bachelorette groups and the list can go on and on. With visa formalities very easy and quick, excellent direct flight connectivity from various cities in India with a short flying time, multitude of hotels/apartments/resorts to suit every budget, excellent public transport infrastructure, Dubai is always on the top of the mind of any traveler planning a holiday.
For an Indian traveller visiting Dubai for the first time, there are some must see attractions that have to be covered.
Desert Safari
The UAE being a primarily desert area, a visit to the yellow sands of the desert is a given. The best time to do this activity is post afternoon. Here you get a full experience of desert life with an exhilarating ride on 4x4 jeeps that cruise over the undulating sand dunes. Take in the beautiful sunset views. Camel rides are also available. Then as an appropriate ending to the evening you can view a Belly dance and Tanoura show followed by a special dinner with beverages. A fitting finale to a special evening in the desert.
Dhow Cruise
Dhow is the name of traditional Arabian boats. Here the Dhows are more modern and cruise through the Dubai creek to give you unmatched views of the Dubai skyline by night. On board there is music, dinner and guests enjoy a fun filled evening.
Burj Khalifa
At over 828 metres (2,716.5 feet) and more than 160 stories, Burj Khalifa, is The World's tallest building. A living wonder. A Stunning work of art. An incomparable feat of engineering. Take the the world's fastest double-deck elevators, cruising at 10m/s to reach the 124th Floor Observation deck. Take a closer look at the world below through avant-garde, high powered, telescopes. Step out onto the public outdoor observation terrace overlooking the ever-growing skyline.
Dubai Frame
One of the newest attractions in Dubai, Dubai Frame has several experiences bundled into one iconic awe inspiring structure that showcases the story of Dubai from its early establishment to its ambitious plans for future development, at the same time offering spectacular panoramic views across the city.
Burj Al Arab
The iconic sail like structure seen in all Dubai photos, is the Burj Al Arab hotel - undoubtedly one of the most famous landmarks and tourist attractions in Dubai. The luxury record-breaking all-suite hotel includes a range of fine-dining restaurants, incredible beaches and the expansive Burj Al Arab Terrace. Built on its own island, the sail-shaped building rises 321m, providing guests with an amazing hotel room view of the Arabian Gulf. Since the room rates start at more than INR 100,000 per night which is almost equal to the the tour cost that one pays to see all of Dubai, , its best to have a photo stop here!!
Atlantis the Palm
Another one of the many iconic hotels in Dubai, Atlantis the Palm is located on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah Island and enjoys a private sandy beach. The 5-star Atlantis offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It provides an underwater aquarium and complimentary access to the Aquaventure water park and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.
Museum of Future
The Museum of the Future in Dubai is nothing short of spectacular. The design of the building alone is awe-inspiring, but the experience inside is what truly sets it apart. Every exhibit is a glimpse into the possibilities of tomorrow, blending cutting-edge technology with imaginative concepts. The museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology. Termed a 'living museum', it incorporates elements of traditional exhibitions, immersive theatre and themed attractions, so visitors can look beyond the present and towards the future's limitless possibilities. Each floor of the museum is designed like an expansive, interactive movie set, brought to life by expert storytellers, technologists and visionary artists. Topics in focus include the future of space travel and living, climate change and ecology, health, wellness and spirituality.
Miracle Garden
Each season, as the weather begins to cool at the onset of winter starting from November, the gates reopen at Dubai Miracle Garden. With more than 150 million flowers in full bloom, this 72,000-sq-m paradise has flowered into one of the region’s most picturesque, sweet-scented destinations for more than a decade now.
Global Village
This is a shopping, dining, and entertainment attraction There are four main sections in the Village. These sections consist of events and concerts, carnivals, food, and shopping. The food aisle will have food from all over the world. There are pavilions decorated in style of different countries and cultures.
Abu Dhabi
Just a short one and half hours drive from Dubai brings you to Abu Dhabi, the second most popular emirates after Dubai. The major attractions in Abu Dhabi include the Sheikh Zayed Mosque - adorned with stunning white marble domes, intricate floral designs, and shimmering golden accents, an immense Persian carpet, crystal chandeliers and capacity for 41,000 worshipers.; Ferrari World - the world's first Ferrari-themed park and features Formula Rossa, the world's fastest roller coaster, the highest loop ride, the tallest space-frame structure ever built on the planet and over 40 record-breaking attractions, this is the ultimate destination for non-stop, hyper-adrenaline, heart-racing fun and of course the thrill of driving a Ferrari; Shopping at the Dates Market.
Shopping
Any trip is incomplete without shopping and Dubai is a shoppers dream destination. From shopping in the Gold Souk or Spices Souk to luxury shopping of world renowned brands in the various Malls that abound in Dubai as well as Abu Dhabi. From luxury to budget shopping, you’re sure to find everything you want here and more. And with seasonal sales and massive citywide retail celebrations taking place all through the year, it’s always a good time to go shopping in Dubai. Dubai’s shopping culture is eclectic: from fashion-forward stores to designer homeware, from fragrances that will mesmerise your senses to the latest in electronics. as a bonus Dubai offers tax-free shopping for tourists. Tourists need to spend a minimum of AED250 to claim VAT refunds.