When it comes to adjectives, a few come to mind right away to describe a Dubai holiday – among them, lavish, exotic, cosmopolitan, and fascinating. This desert oasis seemed to pop up on the tourism radar of the world virtually overnight. In truth, Dubai has been a gathering place for international travellers from the Eastern and Western cultures for centuries. While much of Dubai is modern and contemporary, a trip to the souk (market) reveals its past, rooted in the Byzantine and Sassanian empires. Spices, jewelry, gemstones, copper and leather goods have been sold to shoppers long before the first skyscraper overlooked the Persian Gulf.
It’s the mix of cultures that has turned Dubai into one of the fastest growing holiday destinations. The city that celebrates the Muslim holiday of Ramadan also has Western-style malls on a grand scale, full of designer goods, popular chain stores, and luxurious shops. But this is Dubai, so shopping malls come with an indoor ski slope, “dancing” water fountains, and a theatre complex with 14 movie screens. Although Dubai is situated in a desert, abundant grassy areas host golf tournaments, cricket and football matches. Oddly enough, its Muslim culture forbids the consumption of alcohol, yet Dubai’s nightlife is legendary and ranks among the best in the world. In fact, Dubai might rival New York for the title of “the city that never sleeps.” With movie festivals and concerts with celebrity headliners like Elton John and Celine Dion, there’s entertainment available around the clock.
It’s best not to analyze Dubai too much. It’s endlessly fascinating and never fails to impress. It is full of contrasts and surprises. But isn’t it those things that make going on holiday so memorable?
Cheap and fast, an authentic schwarma dinner will leave you ample money for shopping and pub hopping.
With duty-free goods and a yearly festival devoted to shopping, it’s an experience to remember.
Why settle for a four or five star hotel? In Dubai, you can stay at one ranked with seven stars!