Joanna James
Ask anyone who has travelled to Dubai and they will have plenty to say about just how spellbinding this destination really is. From jaw-dropping skyscrapers and exciting activities to golden deserts, this city is a gateway to the best of the UAE that can be enjoyed with the experiences below.
Standing tall at 828 metres, the Burj Khalifa isn’t just the tallest free-standing structure on the planet, it’s a marvel of modern engineering. Snap those iconic selfies outside, then head up to the 124th and 125th floors for the At The Top experience complete with awe-inspiring panoramas. Feel like a VIP? Upgrade to the At The Top Sky and ascend to the 148th-floor home to the highest observation deck in the world. From up there, the city stretches endlessly, especially during sunset when Dubai is bathed in golden light. Tip: Having a camera with a wide-angle lens will be handy because your phone camera might struggle to capture the sheer ‘epicness’ of it all!
Look to stay at a luxury beachside resort on Palm Jumeirah; not only will you get access to sublime shores for relaxing and private dining, but also, plenty of fun water sports. Properties like Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort are ideal since they offer diverse options including adrenaline-pumping activities like wakeboarding, water skiing, and kneeboarding. For a slower pace, try sunset kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, soaking up serene views of the Palm’s iconic islands. Families can enjoy banana boat rides, while fishing enthusiasts can reel in their catch for a fresh, delicious meal back at the resort.
The city’s themed attractions provide lots of action-packed escapades for kids and the young at heart. Another reason why it’s a good idea to be based at the Palm Jumeirah is that you have easy access to such attractions offering some of the best things to see and do in Dubai. Cool off in style at Aquaventure World with a stunning array of slides and rides like Shockwave and the Leap of Faith. Don’t miss Dolphin Bay, where you can swim with these majestic creatures or The Lost Chambers Aquarium for more captivating marine life encounters. Away from Palm Jumeirah, you can enjoy skiing at Ski Dubai (at the Mall of the Emirates), while LEGOLAND Dubai and IMG Worlds of Adventure deliver nostalgia and thrills in equal measure.
Take a step back in time at Dubai Creek, a historic area which was once a hub for trade and pearl diving. Hop on a traditional dhow and take in the sights as you glide along the water; some cruises even offer dinner and entertainment that make this experience more memorable. Ensure you explore the banks beside the creek home to lively markets called souks. Stroll through the famed Gold Souk, where glittering treasures await, or the aromatic Spice Souk, where you can haggle for fragrant spices, herbs, and incense.
No trip is complete without a desert safari in Dubai, which offers diverse experiences as well. Hold on tight as you are whisked across the dunes in a 4x4 for an exhilarating dune-bashing experience. Want to ramp up the excitement? Some excursions let you choose from quad bikes and dune buggies so you can carve your own path in the sands. For a more traditional adventure, a camel ride will take you back to an age when Bedouins roamed these lands. Pro tip: The desert sunsets are pure magic so don’t forget to charge your phone or bring your camera to ensure you capture the magical vistas!
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.
