DUBAI
Once a small fishing village in the Arabian Gulf, Dubai shares the spotlight with some of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. One of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, the city is home to more than 200 nationalities and offers an unforgettable experience to all visitors. Whether it is by the banks of the Creek, or at the top of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, Dubai lives and breathes a sense of possibility and innovation. And with an unparalleled coastline, beautiful desert and magnificent cityscapes, memories are just waiting to be made here.
Must see in Dubai
DUBAI MARINA
The man made Dubai marina is one of the most exclusive areas in Dubai with sleek skyscrapers lining the water and multimillion-dollar yachts gliding past chic hotels and restaurants. With its miles of walkways, the marina is perfect for an afternoon stroll or a moonlight walk after dinner.
BURJ KHALIFA
At over 2,716.5 feet tall and more than 160 stories, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai is the tallest building in the world. A stunning work of art and astonishing feat of engineering, the building has become an iconic symbol of Dubai since its opening in 2010. Visitors can ascend 148 floors to the observation deck to enjoy panoramic views over the city, then descend to Dubai Fountain, the world’s tallest performing fountain!
SHEIKH ZAYED MOSQUE
The opulent Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi is one of the largest mosques in the world, with a capacity for 40,000 worshippers. Named after UAE founder Sheikh Zayed who is buried here, the all white mosque features 82 marble domes, over 1,000 columns, 24-karat-gold gilded chandeliers and the world’s largest hand knotted carpet. As one of few mosques open to non-Muslims, visitors can take one of the free guided tours offered throughout the day.
AL AIN
Like something out of a mirage, Al Alin is an oasis city located approximately two hours from Abu Dhabi. With its shady palm trees and natural springs in the middle of the Arabian desert, the city has been dubbed the “Garden City.” Once a vital stop on the caravan route between Oman and the Gulf, Al Ain is one of the oldest permanently inhabited settlements in the world. Most visitors to Al Ain come to see Al Jahili Fort, built in 1891 to protect the city.
PALM JUMEIRAH
For a truly unique experience in Dubai, spend a day on Palm Jumeirah. The artificial island, made from reclaimed land mass, is aptly shaped like a palm tree and consists of a trunk and 17 fronds. Head for Atlantis, The Palm to enjoy Aquaventure Waterpark and Lost Chambers Aquarium, or just find a beach to relax and dip your toes into the warm waters of the Gulf.
ARABIAN DESERT
Encompassing most of the UAE, the Arabian Desert is the fourth largest desert in the world. Bringing to mind Middle Eastern folk tales like Arabian Nights, the vast swaths of golden sand dunes is an unmissable part of your travels to the UAE. In this desert landscape, go dune bashing on a 4×4 vehicle, ride a camel or enjoy a barbecue feast under the stars.
