Joanna James
Dubai is a combination of culture, development, and entertainment, each in the epitome of its calibre. To experience the best of Dubai, here are a few places that you must not miss out on.
Although Dubai only recently climbed high up the ladder of success, the old Dubai is just as exciting as the Dubai reputed around the world. At the Bastakiya Quarters located in the old Bastakiya district, the old Dubai comes alive in the most profound manner. Be it the narrow lanes or the tall wind towers and traditional courtyard houses, visitors can enjoy a fascinating glimpse of what Dubai looked like several years in the past.
From the exterior to the interior, the Dubai Museum is one attraction where you can immerse yourself in plenty of Emirati history. The building itself was once the famous Al Fahidi Fort, which was constructed to protect Dubai against foreign invasion. Inside the Museum is a world of historical treasure ranging from old maps, which showcase the urban expansion of Dubai, to an authentic exposure to the unique desert life and traditional Arabian homes and mosques. Highlights of the Dubai Museum include artefacts from excavated graves, age-old musical instruments and weapons used in the yesteryears of Dubai.
A mosque of grandeur and the finest of Islamic Art, the Grand Mosque of Dubai is a must-see for all those visiting the city. Located on the Bur Dubai side of the Creek, the Grand mosque – although historic in origin – was reconstructed in the year 1998 and has a 70-metre-tall minaret, which stands as the tallest minaret in the entire city. 45 domes are seated atop this exquisite mosque in addition to 9 larger domes complete with rich stained-glass panels.
An icon of sophistication, the Burj Al Arab stands gloriously as the only 7-star hotel in the world. With superiority emanating from every inch of this structure, the Burj Al Arab has an exquisite sailboat-like architecture that towers up 321 metres and is constructed atop Dubai's artificial island. The interiors are vibrantly coloured and boast some of the finest pieces of furniture you would have ever laid eyes on. If it fits your budget, you could probably stay the night and indulge in luxury at a whole new level.
Dubai is a city that is packed with plenty of fun. Especially with the scorching heat that it is commonly known for, it doesn't come as a surprise that water and water-based fun is much welcome in Dubai. If that's the type of fun you are looking for, pay a visit to the Wild Wadi Water Park and indulge in thrilling aquatic fun, complete with a world of fun-filled rides and lots more.
This themed mall that is designed after the adventures of Ibn Battuta, the famous traveller, is perhaps a favourite place to hang out among both locals and tourists alike. There are plenty of things to do in Ibn Battuta Mall and if you are staying at Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai, it makes access to the mall that much more convenient.
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