Joanna James
Dubai has a very delicate mix of new and old which has resulted in there being plenty see and do for tourists. Here are 7 things you should do while in Dubai.
Located close to the Burj Khalifa in downtown Dubai, the Dubai Mall is a shopping paradise. With a whopping 1200 store, the massive Dubai Mall is the world's largest shopping centre. Even if you thinking of buying anything visiting this huge retail centre which also has an ice rink and an aquarium with more than 33,00 underwater animals is well worth it. The Dubai Fountain, designed by the same people who designed Bellagio's dancing fountain is located nearby and is best enjoyed in the night when the nightly shows at the fountain happen.
Located south from the Dubai Marina, the Jumeirah Mosque whose detailed white entrance (which is also featured on the 500-dirham note) mimics the architectonic of the Fatimid period of Islam. Unlike most of Dubai's other mosques, non-Muslims visitors are allowed inside to admire Jumeirah's decorations. Tourists who are planning to visit the mosque have come dressed modestly – i.e. long skirts, pants and sleeves, women are also expected to wear a scarf to cover their heads. If you didn't bring anything fitting to wear the caretakers of the mosque are more than happy to provide you with something to wear.
Located between the Palm Islands and Jumeirah Beach the Burj Al Arab which overlooks the Persian Gulf, is a magnificent construction which has left architecture buff speechless since it opened in 1999. A world-class luxurious hotel which happens to be world's largest hotel and also houses an 600 feet tall atrium is located on its own man-made island.
While the city experience triple-digit temperatures, this huge indoor winter wonderland is never short of fresh white snow. Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski centre which has five ski tracks (the longest one stretching out to more than 1,300 feet and feature a 197-foot vertical drop), a chairlift, a freestyle snowboard zone, a room dedicated for snowball fights and toboggan runs.
Located walking distance from Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Beach is one of Dubai's best public beaches. Beach lovers come here soak in Dubai's bright rays, while water sports lovers make use of the calm waters of the Persian Gulf. Getting in early is advised as the beach tends to get crowded as the day progresses.
The Gold Souk, located on the south bank of Dubai's creek is definitely one of the things to do in Deira, Dubai if you want to get an idea of how trading used to happen back in the day. The Gold Souk is one of the respected and renown gold jewellery trading centres in the world and is home to more than 300 retailers. The souk also sells diamonds platinum and silver and you're guaranteed to get what you're paying for as the government monitors and controls who in the soul sells what. The Spice Souk, located on the other side of the creek and close to AVANI Deira Dubai Hotel is where you can buy spices from across the globe like ginger, cinnamon, chilli and saffron.
The Burj Khalifa which stands at a height of 2,716.5 feet (160 stories) currently holds the record for being the world's tallest building in the world. It also holds the record for the world's highest outdoor observation deck and the tallest in the world. Visitors can visit the 124th floor for a stunning view of the city while for an extra cost you can visit the world's highest observation deck located on the 148th floor.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
