Once a small fishing village in the Arabian Gulf, Dubai is today one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. One of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, Dubai offers a truly memorable experience to all visitors.
Those looking for a relaxing beach break will find glorious sands and sparkling seas along Jumeirah Beach, while those in search of a city break or some retail therapy will be spoilt for choice – why not try your hand at haggling in one of the souks around the city? Or perhaps you’re looking for something a little different. Something even more memorable and unique.
Here we showcase some of the special experiences which can only be had in Dubai, the destination where anything is possible.
Explore Dubai’s best desert safaris
Join one of a range of desert safaris which offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for an exciting adventure or a luxurious journey through the dunes, there is a meticulously created experience for you!
These safaris aim to deliver remarkable adventures in the most sustainable and innovative ways possible: travel in a vintage Land Rover or a top-of-the-range four-wheel drive, as part of a camel caravan or high up in a hot air balloon for incredible desert panoramas.
Then enjoy a superb dinner at a desert camp, under the star-filled night sky, which is breath-taking.
Visit platinum-heritage.com and nara.ae for daytime activities and evening dining.
Take a culinary journey
Small group food tours in Dubai are an immersive experience where you are served speciality local dishes and taken to hidden gems in older parts of the city. The tour guides are passionate storytellers and explorers who transport you beyond the food with their tales, nostalgia and insider secrets of Dubai: you’ll find out more about this city’s rich heritage.
Choose from options including the Middle Eastern Food Pilgrimage or the Old Dubai Food Scavenger Hunt.
Take a tour with fryingpanadventures.com.
Local learning
The Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) offers a range of activities, including traditional meals where you share conversations with local Emiratis.
Sign up for a traditional Emirati breakfast, lunch, or dinner and perhaps begin with a guided walking tour of the historic Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, located on the Dubai Creek. Then take a seat on Bedouin-style carpets and pillows, enjoying a selection of local dishes while your Emirati hosts answer questions about life in the city.
An escorted visit to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, with its high air towers, alleys, pathways and public squares, makes a great start to your meal, or you might do this as a stand-alone activity.
Find out more at cultures.ae.
Art for all
Jameel Arts Centre is an independent institution dedicated to frequently changing contemporary art exhibitions and to engaging communities through learning, research and commissions. Within the beautiful light -filled building’s 7 courtyards are amazing desert gardens, featuring rare plants from deserts around the world. Founded and supported by Art Jameel, the Centre is located in Jaddaf Waterfront, along Dubai Creek and is the place get a real sense of current local culture.
Full details at jameelartscentre.org.
Next steps
To find out more about holidays to Dubai, visit visitdubai.com/en or speak to our Silver Travel Advisors on 0800 412 5678 to start creating your Dubai holiday.
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