Joanna James
Glamorous Dubai is the most visited holiday destination in the UAE, a marvellous location of high rise buildings, fabulous shopping malls and exotic desert adventures; here are the top attractions.
The most famous attraction of all, the Burj Khalifa is Dubai's iconic landmark and also, the world's tallest building. When visiting the complex, one must not fail to head over to the 124th floor observation deck. The bird's eye views of the city are simply amazing. Your 360 degree views will consist of the desert on one end and the modern city on the other. Plan a night visit and you will be mesmerized by the city, engulfed in a million twinkling lights. Before heading to the observation deck, you may want to check out the surroundings, home to beautifully manicured gardens and walkways, which meander around the water features. Amongst these is the Dubai Fountain, deemed the world tallest fountain, which performs on the same lines as the one at Bellagio, Las Vegas.
The Dubai Mall is your gateway to the Burj Khalifa, as well as, the Dubai Aquarium; it is a mere 20 minutes' drive from Oaks Liwa Heights and is much more than a shopping zone. Easy to reach from well-placed serviced apartments in Dubai, this mall boasts a cinema, ice skating rink and gaming zone. There is always a host of entertainment happening at the mall, with live performances and fashion shows taking place on a regular basis. If you are heading to Dubai in January or February make sure to visit the mall for the world famous, Dubai Shopping Festival.
Located at the Al-Fahidi Fort, which itself is a relic, having being built in 1787 as a defence for the Dubai Creek, the museum offers one an insight into the exotic past of the Emirates and Dubai. At the entrance are vintage maps of Dubai and the UAE, while, the antique courtyard is home to a number of traditional boats, as well as, a palm leaf house complete with an Emirati wind tower. There are two halls; the one on the right displays ancient weapons, while the left side hall has a collection of Emirati musical instruments. Dioramas of pearl fishing and Bedouin lifestyles offer an insight into lifestyles way back then, together with artefacts which date back to over 4000 years.
Bastakia or the Al Fahidi neighbourhood was established in the 19th century. It was built as quarters for the visiting Persian merchants, who were wealthy traders, dealing in textiles and pearls. Located along the Dubai Creek, on the eastern edge of Bur Dubai, the buildings are made out of coral and limestone and include, 'wind-towers'. These are ingenious contraptions which helped funnel the sea breezes down into the houses.
The ruler of Dubai from 1921 to 1958, Sheik Saeed Al Maktoum is the grandfather of Dubai's present ruler. A marvellous example of Arabian architectural styles, this former residence, built in 1896, is now a museum. Although the original building was demolished, the new construction has well emulated the former complexes styles and remains true to the original design.
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