Things to do in Dubai -The city that never settles for average

If you Google ‘Dubai, then and now’ you will see just why this city is known for its lightning fast development and futuristic infrastructure.  A perfect marriage of old and new, it’s not surprising that Dubai is one of the most visited destinations in the world. Here are things to do in Dubai -The city that never settles for average.

Dubai is home to quite a few record breakers- the world’s tallest building, the world’s busiest international airport, the world’s only seven-star hotel, the world’s biggest mall…just to name a few(if there was a record for the most records, I’m sure Dubai would own that as well.)

Getting around Dubai

The best time to visit Dubai is between November and March where the temperatures are manageable and the city is in full swing. Getting around in Dubai is relatively simple, the Metro system is cheap and reliable and can get you to most of the city’s key locations while taxis are abundant and easily available (and at a minimum fare of 12 AED i.e $ 3.2, they’re not too expensive as well). Bicycles are also available for rent all over the city if you are willing to take on Dubai’s infamous heat and humidity.

You can also rent a car through Dollar Rent A Car and roam around in the city freely as per your wish.

Marvel at Burj Khalifa

You cannot possibly visit Dubai without marvelling at the Burj Khalifa. While the building can be seen from almost anywhere in the city, a trip inside its observation deck (yup, you guessed it, World’s highest) will give you a 360 degree view of this magnificent city (tip: book your tickets in advance for cheaper prices and try and avoid peak hours to avoid the crowds). Sitting at the foot of the Burj Khalifa is the Dubai Mall and the spectacular dancing Dubai Fountain that entertain thousands of captivated tourists on a daily basis.

Friday and Saturdays are Dubai’s weekend

The weekend in Dubai is Friday and Saturday so plan well because if you’re looking to party, Thursday and Friday nights are your best bet. If you’re not so much of a party animal, a weekend trip to the desert is a great option. Choose between lots of different safaris each offering a completely unique experience be it dune bashing, enjoying a desert barbeque or being witness to a hypnotic belly dance performance (or in some cases, all three!)

Travelling to the future on a Ski trip

Speaking of unique experiences, what better way to get away from the sweltering heat than a ski trip? Yup, you read that right. Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort situated in the Mall of the Emirates complete with a 400-meter long run, a quad lift and an 85-meter high mountain. Snow in the desert, How’s that for futuristic?  

The trip to Bur Dubai

Now that you’re done travelling to the future, travel back in time for a peek at the city’s past with a trip to Bur Dubai. Get lost in the maze of narrow lanes that cradle a number of museums, galleries and cafes. From here you can take an abra (traditional wooden boat) across the creek to the spice souk and gold souk where your bargaining skills will be put to the test.

Like I said before, Dubai is not content with the average which is why after everything I have just mentioned, you will have barely scratched the surface. A few of the other top tourist activities include:

• A trip to the beach– While a large portion of Dubai’s coastline is privately owned, there still are quite a few free public beaches you can visit like the Jumeirah Beach Park and the Kite Beach.
• Skydiving– listed as one of the top 10 cities to skydive in, the breathtaking views of this man-made marvel of a city is the reason you’ll have to book your seat months in advance for a chance at this once-in-a-lifetime experience
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo– This World record winning (another one??)10-million liter aquarium tank showcases a wide variety of aquatic life and is located in the Dubai Mall.
• Theme Parks– Regardless of your age, Dubai has a theme park for you.

While I hope this article gives you an idea of what to expect from Dubai, this is just the tip of the iceberg. There are a number of projects in the pipeline that are about to reach fruition and even more that are underway for the World Expo 2020. If there is one thing that will remain constant, however, it is the speed at which Dubai is innovating and expanding so hold tight and enjoy the ride!

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