Joanna James
As in any desert capital, Dubai is also home to a number of lesser-known hangout spots that only locals are aware of. Whether you are looking to spend a quiet afternoon on your own or mark a special occasion with friends, here are some of the less crowded hangouts in Dubai to visit.
Considered the perfect place to spend a few hours instead of exploring Downtown Dubai's Souk Al Bahar, the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard is a foodie's dream come true. This street with illuminated tree-lined paths is also home to countless local restaurants and cafes as well as a few hotels offering spectacular views of the iconic Burj Khalifa. Just hop on board a Dubai Trolley after your visit to the Burj Khalifa and spend an evening walking the streets of this dynamic boulevard where you can wine and dine in some of the best restaurants in town.
Travellers based at the Avani Palm View Dubai or any other Palm Jumeirah hotels in the area should also take the time to visit this unusual cafe located next to the Jumeirah Mosque. Not only is this unassuming cafe the best place to savour a scoop of pistachio ice cream made using camel milk but a venue to savour a host of sweet delights made from this local dairy variety. Camel milk milkshakes and coffee made with camel milk are not all that's on offer as visitors can dig into camel milk cheese, camel milk creams and a number of local sweets.
Tipped to be one of Dubai's most scenic locations, the Marina Walk is a fantastic place to hang out for those who are looking for a quieter recreational hotspot in the city. Decidedly chic and understated, the Marina Walk is spread out across a little over 3km and is home to some of the finest patio shisha cafes in Dubai. Not only can you sample fresh mocktails from the many dining hubs in the area but also enjoy a shopping spree at the nearby Dubai Marina Mall or go on a culinary adventure at Pier 7, Dubai's multi-level fine dining Mecca. Budget travellers can simply take in the atmosphere on a long stroll in this area, which is flanked by a canal on one side and mammoth skyscrapers on the other.
Families holidaying in Dubai will not find a more peaceful and secluded leisure hub than the Al Mamzar Beach Park. Apart from the white, sandy beach, this area is also ideal for picnics and family celebrations as snack bars, restaurants and a skating rink are all part of the landscape. Visitors can also go biking around the beach park on rented bikes during a morning or afternoon in this area or splash around the community pool.
Situated in the Al Fahidi Historical District, the Coffee Museum is both a coffee shop and a cultural attraction. In addition to perusing books based on coffee, visitors can marvel at the ancient Barista equipment and antiques on show at the venue.
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.
