Planning on visiting Dubai? Here's a complete lowdown of attractions that need to make it to your wishlist
If there is any place in the world that has fastest become the most sought-after destination for travel, leisure and entertainment, then it has to be Dubai. The Emirate, in its entirety, is a work of art and architecture.
Once a mere fishing village of fewer than 1,000 people, today Dubai has transformed into a global and cosmopolitan tourist attraction. It leaves one wondering how a barren desert, in a matter of a few decades, could turn into a place that has become synonymous with luxury, innovation and growth.
Dubai is the land of everything superlative.
The tallest building in the world (Burj Khalifa), one of the world's largest malls (Dubai Mall), the largest aquariums (Dubai aquariums) and much more. But one thing that sets it apart is that it is a city that has something for everyone, no matter which part of the world you belong to. It attracts thousands of visitors every day.
And don’t be hesitant about the costs. While Dubai might be counted among the more expensive cities in the world, finding accommodation as per your budget is easy since the hotels dotting the city cater to different budgets.
What’s more is that there cannot be a better time to visit Dubai than now since a myriad of its posh hotels are hosting a special offer that lets visitors (and Dubai staycation-ers) stay for five nights for the price of three. These hotels have excellent views and amenities, including gyms, pools and spas, and an array of restaurants offering diverse cuisines.
If one wishes to wake up to a view of the golden sands of Dubai’s beaches, they can book a summer package with Caesars Palace at Bluewaters Dubai - a vibrant and luxe hotel destination, located on the idyllic Bluewaters Island. The resort boasts a range of world-class dining experiences at some of Dubai's best restaurants, including Hell's Kitchen by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.
Then there is Amwaj Rotana, located along Dubai's famous leisure and retail strip, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence. Guests staying at this five-star hotel have quick access to Jumeirah Beach, the Beach Mall - which also offers a children's water park - along with many retail outlets and entertainment options; including Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Marina.
You can also choose to stay at one of the mesmerising resorts at JA Ocean View and JA The Resort located along the pristine shorelines of Dubai and with amenities like tennis courts, a world-class golf course, jet skiing, windsurfing and banana boating.
Most of these properties offer complimentary buffet breakfasts and private beach access. The rooms also offer breathtaking views of the calm waters, with exotic yachts circling the newly built Ain Dubai.
If you are more interested in theme parks than beaches and waterfronts, then Lapita Hotel, located within Dubai Park & Resorts, is the place for you.
From signature dining experiences to casual alfresco terraces, Lapita is a resort-style property offering a world of experiences for the perfect stay. You will find three world-class theme parks here: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai and Legoland Dubai, along with Legoland Water Park Dubai. Upon meeting certain conditions, guests can enjoy free access to all the theme parks during their stay.
If you enjoy the hustle and bustle of city life, there are plenty of hotel options on Sheikh Zayed Road which offer views of the ever-busy road full of state-of-the-art skyscrapers and exotic cars zooming in and out in the blink of an eye. Rose Rayhaan by Rotana is one of them, and it is also one of the tallest hotels in the world.
This flagship property of Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts is located three minutes away from the Dubai International Financial Centre and is a step away from the Financial Centre metro station; it is also near The Dubai Mall and offers panoramic views of Dubai, overlooking Burj Khalifa. The newly built Museum of the Future, which has evoked the interest of many visitors and residents alike, is only two train stations away.
An interesting element of Dubai is that this Emirate believes in maintaining history as much as in creating it. There are many jewels located in the Old Town of Dubai that emphasize the region’s proud heritage.
The one that tops the list is Al-Seef Dubai, a district that showcases the city’s blend of its proud past and bright future. If you are staying at either of the Hyatt Place Dubai properties, located in Baniyas Square and Wasl District, you can experience Dubai’s unique history with Hyatt Place as the starting point. One can easily explore traditional markets such as Gold and Spice Souks and can relive the past and trace the city’s origins at Al-Seef and Etihad Museum from this location.
Once accommodation is taken care of, you don’t need to worry too much about things to do. There are ample attractions to fill your days and nights with action. For instance, the off-road adventure, Desert Safari, is easily accessible with a pick and drop facility from/to the guest's location. La Mer Dubai and Laguna Waterparks offer fun for the entire family with their thrilling slides, raft rides and surfing – especially if you want to burn off some energy. If you are a fan of performing arts, then Dubai Opera, located in the heart of downtown, is the place to visit. All these locations can be reached via the Dubai Metro.
If you want to treat yourself to a grand shopping experience, you can browse leading global brand stores at the Dubai Mall, where you can also step outdoors at sunset to watch the magical fountain show; with Burj Khalifa lit in all its glory serving as its backdrop. Also, some of the most visited attractions of the city are accessible from Dubai Mall, including At The Top at Burj Khalifa, Underwater Zoo and Aquarium and Dubai Fountains.
Each day in Dubai can be filled with diverse experiences and Dubai is, indeed, full of surprises. You must see it, to believe it.
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