Dubai

A Land of Contrasts

From the timeless tranquillity of the desert to the lively bustle of the souk, Dubai offers a kaleidoscope of attractions for visitors.

The emirate embraces a wide variety of scenery in a very small area. In a single day, the tourist can experience everything from rugged mountains and awe-inspiring sand dunes to sandy beaches and lush green parks, from dusty villages to luxurious residential districts and from ancient houses with windtowers to ultra-modern shopping malls.

The emirate is both a dynamic international business centre and a laid-back tourist escape; a city where the sophistication of the 21st century walks hand in hand with the simplicity of a bygone era.

But these contrasts give Dubai its unique flavour and personality; a cosmopolitan society with an international lifestyle, yet with a culture deeply rooted in the Islamic traditions of Arabia.

Since earliest times, Dubai has been a meeting place, bringing together the Bedouin of the desert interior with the pearl-diver, the merchant of the city with the sea-going fisherman.

Dubai City

At first glance, the city presents a predominantly modern face, an ever-changing skyline of new developments, from striking glass and concrete towers to gracious modern buildings incorporating traditional Arabian architectural motifs and features.

The annual Dubai Shopping Festival extravaganza has rapidly become an internationally-known event, with thousands of bargains, draws, shows, promotions and some of the world’s lowest prices. In addition, the hotels and furnished appartments complexes offer reduce accommodation rates, while Emirates offers great deals on tickets.

Things to do
There are many activities to pursue in Dubai, from parasailing, and sea tours, to desert safaris and mountaineering. Sports fans can enjoy time on some of the best golf courses in the world, before retiring to the beach to lay in the sand and absorb breathtaking scenery.

Parachuting over the desert, moto-crossing through challenging trails, skydiving from 12,000 feet and sandsurfing on golden dunes, are some daring feats that can be attempted in Dubai.

On underwater adventures, scuba divers may encounter sea creatures like dolphins, and tropical fish, while floating over awe inspiring coral reefs.

Dining seaside while listening to the serene sounds of the ocean is a relaxing way to spend the evening. International cuisine to suit every palate is offered at Dubai’s numerous restaurants.

Shopping at Dubai’s modern shopping malls, souks, and individual retail stores is a great way to spend the day. Dubbed as the “shopping capital of the Middle- East,” Dubai’s retailers offer a variety of merchandise from high-fashion, gold and jewellery, carpets and handicrafts, electronics and more.

From pleasure and leisure activities for relaxed moments, to high adrenaline sports for days that need a boost of excitement, Dubai has the ultimate things to do list.