Traditional Things to do in Dubai – A Jewel in the Desert

Taking a desert safari in Dubai is not only one of the more popular things to do, but it's also a definite must do when you're in the city. Desert Safaris are an ideal way to experience the hot sands of the Arabian Desert while partaking in some fun sandy activities, enjoying a bbq under the stars and witnessing a glamorous and seductive dance of a traditional belly dancer. If you're staying at a luxury hotel in Dubai, you'll be able to get a safari organized through them, where properties such as Desert Palm PER AQUUM, even organizes their own desert safaris with vintage Land Rovers! Guests will also be given the chance to get a henna tattoo or don the traditional Arabian attire and pose for a few pictures. Desert Safaris usually take place before sunset, where guests are boarded in to jeeps and taken for a thrilling spin on the sand dunes.

An Abra is a traditional dhow used to transport people across the Dubai Creek and has been in use since ancient times. Abra are wooden boats that now operate as water taxis. A ride on the Abra will take you to a few of the popular tourist attractions in the city such as the Deira Fish Market, the Old Souq, Spice Souq, and the Dubai Museum. The best part of riding an Abra is that a ride would only cost you 1 dhs! You can also go on a dinner cruise along the Creek on an Abra – which is a fantastic way to experience the well lit sparkling city by night.

Souqs are traditional market places. In Dubai, there are a number of souqs selling things from household goods, spices and even gold! Walk through the cobbled pathways of this traditional market and immerse yourself in the city's culture and tradition, while shopping for some souvenirs or maybe making a good bargain for some gold jewellery. Most common souqs you should consider visiting are the Gold Souq, Spice Souq, Perfume Souq and Souq Madinat. The Dubai Mall Souq is located inside this giant mall and is one you should definitely visit if you're in the mall.

You can't get more traditional than this! Indulge in the best food that the Middle East offers – the shawarma! This juicy succulent Arabic wrap, coated in exotic Arabic tastes will make you wanting more with each bite. Shawarmas usually come in grilled chicken or beef and cost as less as 5 dhs. If you're walking around the souq, look for a street food stall – as they are known to make the most authentic shawarmas you could ever get your hands on! There's nothing like local street food to get your taste buds salivating.

A visit to the Dubai Museum is the ideal way to learn about Dubai's history and culture. Located in Al Fahidi Fort that was built in 1800, the museum holds antiques the dates back to the era when Dubai's main focus was on fishing and pearling. Exhibits in the museum depict scenes of traditional living from the Bedouin life in the desert to a mock souq.