Diverse and vibrant are the two words that best describe Dubai, one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates. Located at the south coast of the Persian Gulf, Dubai has become internationally acclaimed as a major business destination. That said, there is so much more that Dubai has to offer from beautiful beaches to ancient attractions.
The position of Dubai from Europe, Asia and Africa contributes to the large influx of tourists from all over the world. To aid in their coming in to the second most populous emirate after Abu Dhabi, the Dubai International Airport operates directly to a large number of countries in these continents. In particular, the Emirates airline is a very revered airline, serving over 100 countries. Once in Dubai, it is amazing how elaborate the road transport is to accommodate the massive traffic in this city. Visitors have an easy time manoeuvring through the city in its sophisticated bus and taxi systems. Water transport is also very diverse here and there are many means available from boats, ferries and water cycles for absolute adventure.
Even with the emergence of marvellously architectured monumental buildings, Dubai still has to its name the city's oldest buildings some of the most famous ones located in the southeast of the city. The Al Fahidi Fort, now the Dubai Museum is one of these major ancient attractions, as well as the Heritage Village of Hatta at the Hatta Mountains. There is also the Sharia Mosque dating back 200 years ago among other age-old buildings dating back to 2000 years ago.
Modern developments in Dubai have also become major attractions. This city boasts of the worlds most beautiful and monumental establishments, like the Burji Al Arab which is the world's tallest hotel. All around the city are magnificently and uniquely designed hotels, schools and exquisite shopping malls. The Deira Clock Tower is a major landmark in its elegant design.
The Dubai Shopping Festival draws people in their millions to sample one of the world's extensive shopping destination. Held in the month of January each year, there is so much to indulge in; cars, clothing, electronics and jewellery. During the festival, entertainment is in plenty too in all forms from modern music shows to cultural performances. The Deira City Centre and the Malls of Emirates are just two of the many extravagant shopping malls in Dubai. Souks (traditional markets) also attract many people for an assortment of commodities from food stuffs to clothes and electronics.
You will get an opportunity to sample the city's delicacies which come in a rare diversity. Arab food is very common all around the city but basically all cuisines are catered for be it Chinese, Korean, Italian, American and many more. Fast food outlets are also in plenty while there are very stiff regulations on pork and alcohol sold by few restaurants belonging to non-Muslims. Some of the most famous restaurants include the Buddha Bar, the Da Gama, Pumpy's, Spice Island and Rockafellas. Accommodation in Dubai is in plenty too in the city's luxurious hotels with the most popular being Taj Palace Hotel, Jumeirah Beach Club RE, the Fairmont Dubai and the Burj Al Arab.
When you visit Dubai, you will have a host of things to do from shopping to desert trips, outdoor and indoor sports like golf, skiing, parks and wildlife trips and a sample of the city's night life. Next time you are seeking an all inclusive tourist destination, Dubai is the place.