Dubai has always been a place that intrigued me, but it only recently made it onto my travel bucket list. Elle visited Dubai last summer and I was blown away by her gorgeous photos. What caught my attention was the contrast between the city’s sleek, modern side and its more traditional side. I used to think of Dubai as a stopover destination, but now I think Dubai is worth a vacation in itself!
PS: I went to Dubai and loved it!
Check out our 8-day Dubai itinerary and see what we did!
This exotic and rich city is characterized by luxury and style, but also has a cultural and adventurous side. Emerging from the sands of the Arabian desert and developing into one of the world’s most modern and dynamic cities, Dubai has everything I look for in a vacation. It has heat, sunshine, luxurious hotels, countless dining options, great nightlife, beautiful markets, adventurous activities, stunning scenery, and great shopping. Seriously, why haven’t I been to Dubai yet!?
And you might be surprised to hear that Dubai is a great place for those looking to spend a long weekend. My point is, check out Elle’s Dubai weekend itinerary!
Travel Hack Tip: Dubai is all about luxury and style, but luxury hotel holidays are surprisingly affordable. Check out our Dubai holidays for inspiration. Look out for special deals at Atlantis, The Palm! Someone is celebrating a special birthday and this might be a good place to spend it…
(By someone, I mean me. And by “special birthday” I mean my 30th. Oh, it sneaks up on me!)
If you’re still on the fence, here are 10 reasons why Dubai should be on your bucket list.
#1. For the desert adventures
I’ve heard stories of people visiting Dubai and not even seeing the desert what! ? This will be a highlight for me.
You can’t visit Dubai without visiting the Arabian Desert. See this stunning landscape in a variety of ways, including trekking across the sand on a camel, dune surfing, admiring the sand from above in a hot air balloon, or bouncing across the terrain on a 4×4 desert safari. You can experience it. I think I’ll try them all…
#2. To ascend the world’s tallest building
A true symbol of Dubai’s great modern architecture, Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building and a globally iconic landmark. There are two observation decks, one on the 124th and 148th floors, the latter at an altitude of 1,821 feet and offering stunning panoramic views. Why not take it a step further by dining at the world’s tallest restaurant on the 122nd floor?
#3. To admire one of the world’s most beautiful city skylines
After climbing to the highest point of Dubai’s awe-inspiring architectural triumph, take time to admire the skyline from the ground. The marina is one of the best places to enjoy the cityscape. A dinner cruise on Dubai Creek aboard a traditional dhow offers views of the glittering skyline at night.
#4. For some of the best shopping in the world
If you’re in need of a little shopping, you’ll find that world-class shopping is one of the best reasons to visit Dubai. From high-end shopping malls to street markets, it’s virtually impossible to leave Dubai empty-handed. One of the most impressive shopping centers here is Dubai Mall, which houses 1,200 stores as well as amenities such as an ice rink and an aquarium.
#5. For the food scene
From innovative Michelin-starred restaurants to aromatic street food, Dubai is an emerging hub for gastronomy. Due to its diverse population, you can find a variety of cuisines, including Arabic, Persian, Indian, French, and Japanese. From once-in-a-lifetime meals at the Michelin-starred Social by Heinz Beck to cheap and delicious eats at Al Diyafa’s famous food street. The foodie within you will also be delighted in Dubai.
#6. For the man-made islands and beaches
Dubai’s artificial island, or artificial archipelago as it was coined, is another example of the grandeur of this metropolis. The Palm Islands, or Palm Jumeirah, are built in the shape of a palm tree and are listed as one of the only man-made structures visible from space. One of the best ways to explore these islands, which are mainly home to luxury resorts and mansions, is on a yacht trip.
#7. To experience the flourishing art scene
You may be surprised to learn that Dubai is home to a burgeoning art scene and has even been called the contemporary art capital of the Middle East. I learned this because my neighbor is an artist and he splits his time between North Wales and Dubai. Check him out! – Dorsandart. From the financial center’s stylish art galleries to the more “trendy” art joints along Alserkal Avenue, artists and collectors are increasingly drawn to Dubai.
#8. To see the world’s biggest fountain display
Aside from the fountain shows in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Las Vegas, Dubai is the place to go for the most captivating show. Dubai His Fountain, near the Burj Khalifa, is the world’s largest staged water show. Featuring musical performances and over 6,600 lights, this is a must-do as part of your Dubai visit.
#9. To explore the souks
Shopping is easy in Dubai’s mega malls, but perhaps the most famous of the city’s retail experiences is the Gold Souk. These traditional souks are said to be the cheapest places in the world to get authentic gold jewelry, and Deira’s Gold Market is one of the most iconic.
#.10 To spend a few nights in the world’s most luxurious hotels
Finally, no vacation is complete without a memorable place to rest your head. He is one of the best reasons to visit Dubai for the hotel alone. Dubai is home to some of the most glamorous hotels in the world, including the “7-star” Burj Al Arab, famous for its amenities like helicopter transport and rotating beds!
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