Welcoming the world to Dubai, United Arab Emirates
What Makes Dubai A Memorable International Travel Destination?
Dubai is a city that never fails to amaze its visitors. When you visit Dubai there endless top attractions and top things to do. From its towering skyscrapers to its endless shopping options, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. But what makes Dubai truly stand out as a memorable international travel and tourism destination? In this post, we’ll explore some of the key factors that contribute to the city’s appeal and make it a must-see destination for travellers from around the world.
First and foremost, Dubai is known for its modern architecture and iconic skyscrapers.
The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, is the city’s most famous landmark and offers visitors the opportunity to take in panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Located in downtown Dubai, the iconic building is a sight that towers over the skyline of Dubai. Other notable buildings include the
Burj Al Arab, the world’s most luxurious hotel, and the
Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centres in the world. These architectural marvels are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors and surely a trip to any of these counts as some of the top things to do in Dubai when you visit Dubai.
Shopping is another major draw for visitors to Dubai. The city is home to some of the world’s most luxurious malls, including the Dubai Mall and the
Mall of the Emirates. These malls feature designer boutiques, high-end department stores, and a wide variety of dining and entertainment options. For a more traditional shopping experience, visitors can head to the area of Bur Dubai, where some of the city’s souks, or traditional markets, are located, and you can find everything from spices and textiles to gold and perfumes. Dubai is a shopaholic’s top attraction.
Dubai is also known for its outdoor activities and adventure options. When you take a trip to Dubai, the desert is one of the places one shouldn’t miss. It is a top tourist attraction. The desert that surrounds the city offers a chance to take a safari in 4×4 vehicles over the dunes, have dinner in a desert camp, or even do a hot air balloon ride. Visitors can also try their hand at sandboarding and camel riding, or take a helicopter tour to get a bird’s-eye view of the city. The city also offers many water sports options, from jet skiing to dhow cruise dinners at the Dubai marina and Dubai creek.
The Dubai Miracle Garden is the largest flower garden in the world and features over 45 million flowers arranged in various patterns and designs. The garden is set in the desert, and it’s hard to imagine how such a vast array of flowers can be grown in such a hot and arid environment. The garden is a beautiful and unexpected oasis in the middle of the desert and is a popular tourist spot for visitors looking for a unique experience.
Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort that offers visitors the opportunity to ski, snowboard, or snow tube in the middle of the desert. The resort features a 400-meter ski slope with five runs of varying difficulty, as well as a snow park with
various activities such as ski lessons and snowman-building. It is also home to a colony of Gentoo and King penguins that can be observed and interacted with through various experiences. Ski Dubai is an unusual attraction in Dubai because it offers visitors the opportunity to experience winter sports in a city known for its hot desert climate.
Dubai’s rich culture and history are also major attractions for visitors. The city has a number of museums and heritage villages that offer a glimpse into its past, such as the Dubai Museum and the
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Visitors can also experience traditional Arabic culture by visiting one of the city’s many souks or markets or taking a traditional Arabic dance or cooking class.
Finally, the city’s diverse food scene is another reason why Dubai is such a memorable destination.
Culinary tours have boosted tourism in Dubai as one can explore several different cuisines without leaving the city. Visitors can find everything from street food to high-end restaurants in the city, with options ranging from traditional Arabic cuisine to international flavours. Some notable places to visit are the Dubai Creek, where one can find traditional seafood restaurants, and the Al Seef, a waterfront dining and entertainment destination.
All of these factors combine to make Dubai a truly memorable international travel destination. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, this vibrant city offers something for everyone. From its iconic skyscrapers and luxurious shopping to its outdoor adventures and rich culture, there’s always something new to discover every time you visit Dubai.
Who should visit Dubai?
Dubai is a destination that appeals to a wide range of travellers. There are plenty of top tourist attractions and top tourist places to suit everyone of every age or demographic.
- Shopaholics: Dubai is known for its luxury shopping experiences, from high-end designer boutiques to traditional souks.
- Foodies: Dubai offers a diverse culinary scene, with a range of international and local restaurants, from street food to Michelin-starred establishments.
- Adventure seekers: Dubai offers a variety of outdoor activities such as sandboarding, dune bashing, hot air balloon rides, and skydiving.
- Culture enthusiasts: Dubai has a rich history and culture, with a number of historical sites, museums, and traditional markets to explore.
- Beach lovers: Dubai has a number of beautiful beaches, with crystal-clear waters and plenty of sun loungers and parasols.
- Business travellers: Dubai is a major business hub in the Middle East and many international conferences and exhibitions are held in the city.
- Families: Dubai has a variety of kid-friendly attractions, such as theme parks, aquariums, and water parks, making it a great destination for families.
- Luxury seekers: Dubai is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and resorts, with a wide range of facilities and services to cater to high-end travellers.
It’s worth noting that Dubai also has a great nightlife scene and is known for hosting events and festivals throughout the year. Dubai is one of those Must visit destinations you cannot afford to miss.
How Easy or Hard is Visa processing for the United Arab Emirates
The process of obtaining a visa to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) depends on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality.
For most nationalities, a tourist visa is relatively easy to obtain. This can typically be done through our travel agency or directly through the airline. The Dubai visa is usually valid for 30 or 90 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days.
For those who are looking to stay longer or for business or work purposes, the process may be more complex and time-consuming. The applicant will typically need to provide additional documentation, such as a letter of employment or sponsorship. The process for obtaining a work or residence visa can take several weeks or even months, and the applicant may be required to undergo a medical examination or background check.
It’s always recommended to check the specific requirements for your nationality and visa type with the UAE embassy or consulate in your country, and also with the immigration department of the UAE.
What’s the best time to visit Dubai?
The best time to visit Dubai depends on your personal preferences and the activities you plan to do during your visit. However, there are a few things to consider when deciding when to go when you choose to visit Dubai:
- Weather: Dubai has hot and humid weather throughout the year, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F) during the day and 20°C (68°F) at night. The peak of the summer (June to September) can be extremely hot and the humidity can be unbearable. However, there are many “Dubai summer surprises” on offer with friendly prices for accommodation, activities and attractions. The best time to visit for more comfortable weather is between October and May, when temperatures are milder, and it’s less humid.
- Tourist Season: Dubai is a popular tourist destination, and the peak tourist season is from November to April. During this time, the weather is milder and the city is less crowded. Hotel prices and airfare tend to be higher during this time, so it’s best to book in advance when you want to visit Dubai City.
- Events and Festivals: Dubai is known for its events and festivals, and the timing of your visit can depend on what you want to see. Some of the notable events and festivals are the Dubai Shopping Festival in January, the Dubai Food Festival which will be happening from April to May in 2023, and the Dubai Summer Surprises in June to August.
- Ramadan: Visitors should also note that Dubai observes the Islamic month of Ramadan, during which time many shops and restaurants may be closed during the day and nightlife may be limited. It is also considerate to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours.
The best time to visit Dubai depends on your personal preferences and the activities you want to do during your visit to Dubai. If you’re looking for milder weather and less crowds, the best time to visit is from October to May. If you want to attend a specific event or festival, you should plan your trip accordingly. And if you’re visiting during the month of Ramadan, you should be aware of the cultural customs and the potential changes in the city’s lifestyle.
Where To Stay in Dubai?
Dubai offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference when you visit Dubai. Some popular areas to stay in include:
- Dubai Marina: This area is known for its modern high-rise buildings, the picturesque marina, and a wide variety of dining and entertainment options. It offers a great location for tourists as it’s close to attractions such as the Marina Walk and the Palm Jumeirah. Visitors can find many hotels and serviced apartments, some of the notable ones are the Address Marina, the InterContinental, and the Ritz Carlton. The Marina is a tourist attraction on its own and its one of the top places to visit in Dubai.
- Bur Dubai: This is one of the oldest areas in the city and is known for its traditional architecture and historical sites. It offers a more authentic experience of old Dubai and is home to the Dubai Museum and the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Visitors can find many budget-friendly hotels in this area such as the Al Ghurair Hotel, the Avari Dubai, and the Citymax Bur Dubai.
- Deira offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. Visitors can find many budget-friendly hotels in this area such as the Dubai Hotel, the Deira Hotel, and the Al Khaleej Hotel. There are also some mid-range options such as the Grand Hyatt Dubai, the Ramada by Wyndham Dubai Deira and the Aloft City Centre Deira. The area is also known for its traditional souks, or markets, where visitors can find everything from spices and textiles to gold and perfumes. Visitors can also take an abra, a traditional water taxi, to cross the creek and explore the area’s various souks and shops. The Deira area is also home to the Deira City Centre, one of the city’s oldest and largest shopping malls, which offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants and entertainment options.
- Downtown Dubai: This area is home to the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centres in the world. It is a popular area to stay in as it offers easy access to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and is also close to the Dubai Fountain. Visitors can find many luxurious hotels in this area such as the Armani Hotel, the Address Downtown, and the Palace Downtown.
- Jumeirah: This area is known for its upscale resorts and beaches and offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. It is home to the famous Jumeirah Beach and the Wild Wadi Waterpark. Visitors can find many luxurious hotels in this area such as the Burj Al Arab, the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, and the Four Seasons Resort.
- The Palm Jumeirah: This man-made island is in the shape of a palm tree and offers a more exclusive and upscale experience. Visitors can find many luxurious hotels on this island such as the Atlantis, The Palm, the Sofitel, and the Rixos.
Is there a dress code for tourists visiting Dubai
Dubai is a relatively liberal city, and there is no strict dress code for tourists visiting, however, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs.
It is generally recommended to dress modestly in public places, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. This means avoiding revealing clothing such as tank tops, very short shorts, and miniskirts. It is also important to be aware that during the month of Ramadan, local customs require people to dress even more conservatively.
It is also important to be aware that in some places, such as government buildings, religious sites and certain shopping centers, it is required for men to wear long trousers and for women to have their shoulders and legs covered.
In tourist areas such as hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, dress codes tend to be more relaxed, but it’s always better to err on the side of caution and dress modestly.
In general, it’s always a good idea to check with the specific location you plan to visit for their dress code policy.
What is Dubai tourism fee (Tourism Dirham)?
The Dubai Tourism Dirham is a daily fee that is imposed on guests staying in hotels and hotel apartments in Dubai. The fee is collected by the hotel or hotel apartment and is used to fund the development and promotion of tourism in the city.
The amount of the fee varies depending on the category of the hotel and ranges from AED 7 to AED 20 per room per night. The fee is usually added to the cost of the room and is typically paid at the time of check-out.
The fee applies to all tourists staying in hotels and hotel apartments in Dubai, regardless of their nationality or the length of their stay. The fee does not apply to guests staying in private residences or serviced apartments.
It’s worth noting that this fee is subject to change and it is always recommended to check with your hotel or the tourism department of Dubai for up-to-date information.
Getting there and Around Dubai City
The main airport in Dubai is Dubai International Airport (DXB). It is the busiest airport in the world by international passenger traffic and the busiest airport in the Middle East. It serves as a hub for several airlines, including Emirates and flydubai, and offers flights to destinations all over the world. The airport has three terminals, Terminal 1, 2, and 3. Terminal 1 mainly serves budget airlines, while Terminal 2 serves mainly international airlines and Terminal 3 is used by all airlines of the Emirates Group. The airport has a range of amenities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and free Wi-Fi. Additionally, the airport offers a range of transportation options to get to and from the airport, including taxis, buses and metro.
There are several ways to get around Dubai, including:
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Dubai and are a convenient way to get around the city. They are metered and the fare can be paid in cash or by credit card. The government-owned Dubai Taxi Corporation and the Dubai Transport Corporation are the main providers of taxi services in the city, and they have a fleet of modern and well-maintained vehicles.
- Buses: Dubai has an extensive bus network that covers most areas of the city. Buses are operated by the Dubai Transport Corporation and are a convenient and affordable way to get around, however the buses can get crowded during peak hours.
- Metro: Dubai has a modern and efficient metro system that covers many areas of the city. The metro is a fast and convenient way to get around, with trains running every few minutes during peak hours.
- Tram: Tram service is also available in Dubai, specifically in the area of Al Sufouh, it is connected to the metro and bus networks and it is a good option for traveling around the area.
- Cars: Many people in Dubai own cars and the city has an extensive network of roads and highways. However, traffic can be heavy during peak hours and parking can be difficult to find in some areas.
- Boats: Dubai Creek and Dubai Marina are served by abras (water taxis) and water buses. This can be a great way to see the city from a different perspective and avoid the traffic on the road.
- Rental cars and bikes: Car and bike rental services are available in Dubai, and can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you plan on exploring outside the city.
It’s worth noting that most of the public transportation in Dubai has a contactless payment system, and it’s also possible to pay via mobile apps or prepaid cards.