The tourist dollar is changing the Middle Eastern city of Dubai, and rapidly. Visitors wanting to get an unspoiled experience of this unique holiday destination should get in quick. Already the home of many an expatriate, the city has a solid infrastructure and is incredibly cosmopolitan, sitting in stark contrast to the desert environment that surrounds it. Modern attractions and an abundance of vacation activities are on offer in this friendly and welcoming city.
Take a cultural tour of the city and you’ll no doubt visit the likes of the Grand Mosque, Jumeira Mosque, Dubai Heritage Village and the Dubai Museum. Of these, the Grand Mosque is among the most significant attraction as the city’s most important Islamic worship center. Capable of seating some 1,200 people, the building is impressively large and boasts Dubai’s tallest minaret. Non-Muslims are denied entry but may appreciate its grandeur from outside.
To get the sense of an Arabian city a la Hollywood movie, be sure to visit Dubai’s Spice Souk, where the locals frantically peddle aromatic ingredients such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and turmeric in a truly authentic Middle Eastern environment. Elsewhere, there are numerous other markets with similar ambiences offering the gamut of food items plus traditional handmade textile products.
Highlights
Grand Mosque: appreciate the splendor of this magnificent building’s exterior if you are non-Muslim, while the charms of the interior will also welcome you if you are of the correct faith.
Dubai Museum: Dubai’s history and culture are represented by an impressive collection of artifacts displayed in what is the oldest building in the city.
Wild Wadi Water Park: 20 minutes drive out of the city and the watery delights of this outdoor attraction are at your disposal. Slides, water chutes, wave pools and kiddy zones comprise the bulk of the action.
Magic Planet: kids and adults will enjoy the non-stop fun at this impressive indoor activity center which offers a miniature golf course, bowling alley, adventure zone and an interactive games area.
Wonderland: family fun is available at this popular theme park offering fairground rides, arcades and a water park.
Jumeirah Beach: is the place to head if you are looking for water sports such as jet-skiing, waterskiing and sailing,**_ or equally if you just want to lounge around in the sun for a while.