Dubai

Many people in the world associate Dubai with wealth and splendor, high-rise buildings, luxury hotels, super sport cars and of course oil, through which basically become UAE and enabling the rapid growth and insane development of the region. But few people know that in the 19th and early 20th centuries, Dubai was a commercial and business center, where a completely different industry flourished, unrelated to oil production at all. It was the extraction and trade of Pearls, which Dubai itself was nicknamed in those days the "Pearl of the Persian Gulf," and the oil hubs were discovered only in the second half of the 20th century.

What do we really know about Dubai?

Dubai is one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates. The capital of the UAE is Abu Dhabi, but many are simply convinced that Dubai is the capital. It is the largest state in the UAE with over 3 million inhabitants out of 10 million in all the Emirates. But even more surprising is the fact that only 10% of the population are locals, the rest are visitors and foreign workers living here.

Dubai is strategically located in the Persian Gulf Channel and the city itself is divided by the Dubai river according to the best European traditions in the 14 km long. The northern part is called Dubai Deira, and the southern part is Dubai Bur. The fastest and most convenient way to get around the bay is the local water tram or as the locals call it Abra (boat). A trip on such a ship will cost you only one dirham (local currency), but what a kind of view on the bay opens up from the water, don't miss it.

The beginning of Dubai's incredible transformation from an unknown small fishing village to a miracle of the Middle East, is considered to be the 1930s, from the period when the land was occupied by the ancestors of the current Dubai rulers, the Maktoum family.

The discovery of oil in the 1960s led to indescribable growth, and the emirate used all its resources wisely to diversify the economy and create a wide range of industries and sectors of the economy, backed by bold initiatives such as the offshore trade area.

Dubai has a rich Arab cultural heritage and ancient traditions are respected by the locals and still play a very important role among the residents of the Emirates. Although today Dubai is better known among tourists thanks to its intriguing combination of desert, blue sea, beautiful beaches and magnificent buildings.

An absolute monarchy rules in Dubai. The Al Maktoum family has ruled here since 1833 - the current ruler is the Honorable Sheikh Muhammad bin Rashid al Maktoum. His Excellency the Sheikh is not only the Crown Prince of Dubai but also the Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, and like his predecessors has wisely and consistently led Dubai to prosperity. Although tradition and culture are at the core of life in Dubai, the UAE is a very welcoming place. The country's authorities are investing incredible efforts in the development of tourism.The People of the Emirates strive to preserve their Islamic heritage, which is predominantly Muslim. However, Dubai residents are very patient with their citizens and multicultural guests - all religions are welcome. Over 200 nations call Dubai their home, including Indians, Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, Filipinos, Sri Lankans and Americans (and these are not all the peoples living permanently in the country.) Each new group brought with it its own traditions and style, the strengths of each, as well as the taste preferences. Currently the city has more than 6,000 restaurants and cafes, 741 hotels and an endless variety of other entertainment venues offering everything a person could just imagine.

So what to do for a tourist in Dubai?

Dubai's excellent infrastructure attracts international investors in trade, transportation, tourism, industry and finance. With such a wide variety of existing and thriving sectors in Dubai, there is plenty to do and see, no matter how unique your interests are! Experience a striking combination of 21st century comfort and Middle Eastern charm throughout the city. Stroll through the crowded markets of yesteryear or the modern shopping malls. Go on a desert safari or explore the area with visited amazing buildings and record-breaking ones.

Dubai has a variety of fun activities for children, couples, business travelers and many others. Enter the Vail Wadi Water Park, explore local history and cultural heritage at the 18th Century Fortress, home to the Dubai Museum, play tennis or golf at any of the 9 golf courses for your choice, or visit the Man-Made Archipelago - 200 islands a specially designed to reflect approximately world map!

Dubai can also be proud of something that does not exist in real life, that is, the "Burj Al Arab" hotel made in the form of a 7-star award, which simply does not exist in the hotel rating system.

Whether you are looking for 7-star luxury, dining with a Michelin star, or some of the most impressive advances in the world of architecture and technology, Dubai is the perfect place for you!

Before Caovid-19 there was at least one big event or festival every week, and there are countless events to enjoy every day.

Dubai is ranked 5th in the world in terms of safety for tourists after countries like Finland, Iceland, Switzerland and Hong Kong, so anything you can do in Dubai carries a particularly low risk. That means you can just go out and enjoy your vacation every day!

Holidays for the whole family:

In Dubai you can enjoy family fun under the hot sun, in the air-conditioned hotel room, or go skiing and feel the winter in the snow (yes, yes, yes you read that right, snow in the middle of the desert, it is possible!).
Also, walk in theme parks, visit unique events and cultural events - Dubai has something to offer for every family, regardless of age!

If you love beach parties, go head to Kait Beach, located near to Jumeirah Beach, this most beautiful water and sand strip is properly named after the leading attraction in water sports, kitesurfing. You can rent all required equipment, including an experienced guide to help you upgrade your sailing skills.

Visit beautiful beaches with clear water, go to swim or take a sunbathe on Shezlong or build sand castles! There are also great playgrounds for kids here so every family member can find what to do on the beach!

Visit the Dubai Aquarium and the underwater zoo, which spans the three floors of the Dubai Mall.

Legoland Dubai, the newest of the amusement parks of the famous Danish brand, is a must visit.

Dubai Safari Park has become home to over 2,500 animals from around the world and aims to be one of the ten most visited zoos in the world.

Dubai Bollywood Park - If you are a true fan of Indian cinema, you must visit the world's first and only Bollywood-style theme park, where you can watch Indian movies, listen to traditional Indian music or practice national dances.

Of course, it is impossible to manage without visiting Madame Tussauds' world-famous wax doll museum, where you can be photographed with your idol doubles.

There is a park for every taste and every age. Dubai's theme parks and amusement parks are also available for those who love winter countries.
The first indoor ski resort in the Middle East, Dubai Ski, is located in the Emirates Mall. Experience all the richness of the desert in which there is snow all year round, where real live Christmas trees grow and your children can meet real penguins walking in the snow. You will also be surprised by the snow caves, toboggan trails (sledges) and an alpine cafe where you can drink real hot chocolate or watch the snow penguins during their daily march!

Daytime entertainment

Not only families can enjoy Dubai. There are activities for everyone, regardless of their interests!

Shopping enthusiasts can spend their entire vacation in malls, boutiques and bazaars (old fashion market), but there is almost no chance of getting to see them all. Dubai is ranked second in the world in the number of retail brands and even holds an annual shopping festival at the old Bur Dubai Mall (opposite Dubai Creek, close to Dubai International Airport. There are also spice, jewelry, gold and textile bazaars. Bazaars have always been an integral part of the local mentality. As is well known it is customary to bargain on prices in the market, so do not miss the experience and be sure to bargain with the seller and get a discount, including gold, real gems, silk and much more!

One more must-visited place is the observation deck, located on the 124th floor in Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, offering an unrealistic 360-degree view of the entire city at once. This is an amazing building whose elevator, at a height of 450 meters, you can enjoy a unique multimedia presentation detailing the fascinating history of Dubai and all the facts surrounding the development of Burj Khalifa. Above, you can see another marvel of architecture and engineering - the singing Dubai Fountain. It is a spectacular water wonder with the world's largest dancing fountain system with lights and music.

If you are a fan of yachts and luxury sports cars, you can fully enjoy the spectacle in the area of ​​the Yacht Club in the Marina of Dubai, or immediately go head to Palm Island (an artificial island in the shape of a palm tree) to dive into extravagant luxuries with yachts, cars and residential buildings worth millions of dollars ... Along the way you will see villas with the amazing special designs of every building in this eclectic city - believe me, it's worth a look!

Night life!

At night, the city seems to come alive. Despite the fact that it is illegal to drink alcohol or be under the influence of drugs in public places, tourists aged 21 and over are encouraged to participate in a variety of nightlife activities, entertainment venues, bars and nightclubs throughout the city. From stadium performances by the world's largest bands to festivals, food cruises and beach club parties, Dubai has plenty to do for those who love to stay up at night!

Start with the closest bar in your hotel's area. Unlike any other place in the world, Dubai's bars are vast, sophisticated, and purpose-built to cater for a range of niche interests.

If you are not a fan of loud music and are not attracted to the idea of ​​spending the whole night dancing, you can discover night sailing or walking between restaurants, cafes and bars in the Dubai Creek area. Alternatively, you can go on deluxe dinner cruises at night, and then when you are full for the night, unwind in your deluxe suite and get ready to start fresh the next day! If fine dining isn't your thing, try some homemade food in the morning - Dubai has a wide selection of seasonal, local and organic dishes.

The culinary experience on offer in Dubai can really outshine the nightlife.