Exploring Dubai, UAE
Time needed in this city: 3-4 nights (especially if you are taking day trips)
There are so many things we can list that are wonderful about Dubai, but the one that comes to the top of our minds, more than anything, is the service. People from all over the world come to Dubai to learn, train, and work in the service industry, which means wherever you go, you are getting treated like the most important person there. It was rare we opened one door on our own, and we never met someone that was anything less than happy and professional. It’s one of the infinite reasons so many are attracted to moving here.
In addition to this, we were also surprised at how inexpensive many things are, compared to the U.S. - the VAT is at a mere 5% (which for higher-priced goods, you can get back), food is much more inexpensive than we had guessed (two meals at in-room dining, at the St. Regis was $60), and Ubers were $20 - $30 for a 30-minute ride.
Finally, the safety. There’s no crime because the punishment is way too high. I have never felt safer anywhere in the world, than Dubai. It definitely added a level of comfort we aren’t used to!
With all these reasons, and more, we highly recommend taking a trip there to see just how incredible this city is.
The below information is a complete guide of the best places to stay, the top rated places to dine and drink, and all there is to see and do. We’ve also included transportation tips, as well as a summary of the history of this amazing city!
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Where to Stay
There are so many different sections of Dubai that it can be overwhelming to choose exactly where you want to stay. The great news is Dubai’s metro rail system is so fantastic that it really doesn’t matter where you choose to rest your head however, you should put thought into the kinds of experiences you want to be closer to. For us, we wanted a hotel that was comfortable, near the beach with incredible views, and accessible to many different parts of Dubai. See below for where we stayed, along with many other recommendations of great hotels to consider.
St. Regis, The Palm
Only opened for two years, the St. Regis Dubai - The Palm is located on the first 18 floors of the Palm Tower (floors 19-47 are private luxury residences, level 50 is the AURA sky pool - see post below on this experience; level 51 is the restaurant Sushisamba, and level 52 is the observatory deck). It’s the place that everyone seems to want to be “seen” on evenings and weekends, and I can understand why. The modern opulence is incredible, as is the security and overall service. Each room comes with a floor butler, high tech lighting systems, extremely comfortable furnishings, and amazing views. The restaurants and wine bar are also exquisite - see the below video for the champagne saber ritual - I got to keep the cork at the end!
As for price - we all expect it would be expensive, even in the off season, right? We spent about $315 a night, which is a steal compared to St. Regis hotels in other parts of the world. And, the room service food is the lowest price I’ve ever seen at a hotel (minus India).
Other recommended Hotels
Address Beach Resort (Jumeirah Beach - Dubai Marina)
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai - 45 minutes outside of downtown Dubai, this is an amazing property nestled in the sand dunes
Atlantis, The Palm (The Palm)
Burj Al Khalifa (Downtown)
Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre (Financial District)
Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach (Jumeirah Beach)
Jumeirah Al Qasr (Jumeirah Beach)
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates (Downtown)
Madinat Jumeirah (Jumeirah Beach)
Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah (Jumeirah Beach)
One&Only Royal Mirage (Dubai Marina)
Palace Downtown (Downtown)
Paramount Hotel Dubai (Design District)
Park Hyatt (Port Saeed)
Raffles The Palm (The Palm)
Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk (Wafi City)
The Lana - Dorchester Collection (Financial District)
The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel (The Palm)
Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre (Financial District)
Where to Dine & Drink
Al Muntaha
A one Michelin Star restaurant serving French cuisine, it’s located at the top of the Burj Al Arab.
Al Nafoorah
Serving high-end Lebanese fare. It’s located in the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray at The Palm Jumeirah.
Amelia Restaurant & Lounge
The cuisine contains Japanese & Peruvian origins with Mediterranean hints. It’s located in The Amelia Building in the heart of the Financial District.
Asado
Envisioned as an homage to the heritage of Argentina, Asado reflects the quaint and charming feel of a South American country farmhouse. The highlight of the culinary offering is the ‘Parrilla’, the open grill over which age-old traditional dishes are prepared. It’s located in the Palace Downtown, next door to Burj Khalifa. Make sure to request a table outside.
August
French Mediterranean cuisine, located in downtown Dubai with direct access to Dubai Mall.
Bagatelle
Serving French dishes in an upscale atmosphere - it’s a place to be seen after 10pm. It’s located in the Fairmont Dubai.
Basko
A mash-up of cuisines, specializing in seafood and grilled meats, it’s located in the Opus building in downtown Dubai. Make sure to book a table outside to catch stunning views of Burj Khalifa!
Buddah-Bar
A nightlife hotspot serving modern Asian fare. It’s located at the top The Grosvenor Hotel near The Palm.
Carnival by Trèsind
Modern Indian cuisine located in the heart of the Financial District.
COYA
Peruvian cuisine located in Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach.
Dinner in the Sky
Dine while being suspended 50 meters in the air! You can have lunch, dinner or afternoon tea with menus prepared by the Le Meridien and The Westin Mina Seyahi Marina. Choose from Oriental Beef, Tortellini Pasta, King Fish or Corn Fed Chicken as the main course. Dessert can be chocolate cake, fruit salad or ice cream.
Fi’lia
Serving Mediterranean-Italian cuisine and is located on the 70th floor of SLS Dubai.
GAL
Mediterranean-Turkish cuisine, located in the heart of the Financial District, on Burj Khalifa Lake.
Hafiz Mustafa
If you have ever had a Turkish Delight, then you know about this company. Blackbeard was beside himself when he saw could re-experience having his Turkish Coffee and a Turkish pastry (see below for his video review) again. We chose to share a “Baked Chicken Breast” Pudding, which merely means a stuffed pudding (it was amazing). We recommend asking for ice cream on top. Check out Blackbeard’s video review:
Hutong
Modern Chinese cuisine, located in the Financial District near the Museum of the Future.
Kimura-ya
A sushi chain located in several parts of Dubai.
Ladurée
If you know this French brand, then you know how great their afternoon tea is AND their macaron selection. Since their macarons are all gluten-free, Blackbeard and I couldn’t help but stop by there for tea (we recommend their special blend) and a snack.
Lime Tree Cafe
Nestled inside the amazing Food Hall in Nakheel Mall, right next to Waitrose, is Lime Tree Cafe - a fantastic bakery and healthy dining spot that serves everything from gluten-baked items, to pizzas, healthy bowls, and more. Check out Blackbeard’s video review below:
Li’ Brazil
Lebanese and Brazil cuisine, located in Dubai Marina.
Loren
The Italian Riviera of the ‘60s and ‘70s have been brought to the Palm Jumeirah with a refined Italian-style coastal dining, situated on the stunning Palm Jumeirah.
Our dining experience was one of the best we’ve had in the world with amazingly prompt, orchestrated service; incredible food, and a wonderful wine list.
LPM Restaurant & Bar
La Petit Maison serves Mediterranean cuisine that takes much of its inspiration from the fresh flavors of the South of France. It’s located in the heart of the Financial District.
Mythos Kouzina & Grill
Award-winning Greek cuisine, located in the City Walk, down the street from The Jumeirah Towers.
Nova
Mediterranean fusion located in the Dubai Marina
Rhodes W1
Rhodes W1 was headed by the late British Gary Rhodes, who became a TV sensation in the 1990s with his astonishing fusion of Anglo-French cuisine. It’s located at The Grosvenor Hotel near The Palm.
ROKA
Contemporary Japanese Robatayaki cuisine located in the Opus building in downtown Dubai.
Social Bee (Hilton, Palm Jumeirah)
Rumored to be one of the best afternoon teas in the city!
Soy
We found this little Chinese restaurant hidden among all of the food stalls in the food hall, at Dubai Mall. While it seems to have gotten marginal reviews (most locals saying it’s over-priced for the quality), we found it to be priced cheaper than expected and actually really good (we think it depends on what you order). Check out Blackbeard’s video short of our meal there.
Stay by Yannick Alleno
Stay is a two Michelin Star restaurant, serving modern French cuisine, and is located in the One&Only The Palm Jumeirah.
Table Otto
A melting pot of French and Italian cuisines, located in the Dubai Mall.
Tàn Chá
Voted the best Chinese restaurant in Dubai (and is also Michelin-rated), it’s located in the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel. Note: Those with gluten intolerances should NOT eat there.
The MAINE Land Brasserie
New England cuisine, located in Me by Melia Hotel at Opus.
Thiptara
Royal Thai cuisine with an emphasis on Bangkok-style seafood. It’s located in the heart of the Financial District, on Burj Khalifa Lake.
Tribes
Casual African cuisine located in the Dubai Mall.
Wakame
Modern Asian located in downtown Dubai.
Things to See & Do
There is so much to do here, yet there’s no way to get to it all in a few days! Within the fairly complete list are our experiences with what we got to:
Amusement Parks
Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark
Slide through shark-filled lagoons, dance with dolphins, cannon down corkscrew chutes into perfectly temperate waters, and/or take the near-100-foot death-defying drop on the Leap of Faith.
Aventura Parks
This is the city’s largest zipline park covering 35,000 square meters of lush Ghaf tree forest in Mushrif Park. There’s 85 obstacles in the park to choose from, including a wide selection of ziplines, high ropes courses and giant swings. If you’re a bit of a daredevil, there’s also a 25-meter Tarzan jump and aerial surfboards.
Bollywood Parks Dubai
Thanks to its explosive stunt shows, delightfully themed rides, multi-sensory 4D theater and a rotating showcase of unique entertainment, Bollywood Parks is a fresh change from the constant spotlight on mainstream Hollywood. The park spreads across five fascinating zones inspired by the Bollywood film industry — Bollywood Boulevard, Bollywood Film Studios, Royal Plaza, Rustic Ravine, and Mumbai Chowk.
Ferrari World
Located in Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World boasts the hair-raising ride, Formula Rossa, with a top speed of 149 miles per hour. It’s officially the world’s fastest rollercoaster! Note: Tour companies can transport you there and back from the city.
Global Village
Open late-October to mid-April, it features concerts, rides, dining, and attractions from around the world. It's on the outskirts of Dubai, so plan accordingly.
IMG Worlds of Adventure
The first and one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world, IMG Worlds of Adventure has four “Epic Zones” with rides centered around popular Cartoon Network characters, MARVEL superheroes and dinosaur adventures. Test your courage at the Haunted Hotel and find the exit from a maze of creepy spaces. Engage in a luxurious 3D experience at the Novo Cinemas zone with reclining seats and VIP service.
Motiongate
Dubai’s answer to Universal Studios, this Hollywood-inspired theme park transports guests into the filmmaking worlds of DreamWorks Animation, Columbia Pictures and Lionsgate — with rides themed around hit movies like “Ghostbusters,” “Kung-Fu Panda” and “The Hunger Games.” In total, Motiongate offers 27 rides and attractions, including five roller coasters, a water ride to cool off, immersive dark rides, play labs, and 4D theatre shows.
TEP Factor
Nestled in the heart of Dubai’s prestigious Jumeirah Beach Residence promenade, you can solve puzzles and overcome physical obstacles to complete the game. It typically takes teams between two and four hours to complete all of the 21 challenges, but you can stay and play for as long as you want!
VR Park
The largest of its kind in the world, VR Park at Dubai Mall holds the coveted title as the first immersive VR experience in the Middle East with over 25 attractions centered around the theme of “Challenge reality”. Take part in a VR heist, walk down the walls of the Burj Khalifa, travel in a spacecraft, fly through the sky virtually riding the Magic Bikes or Flying Chairs, or paraglide over the Middle East.
Historical Exploration
Old Dubai
Visit the colorful and fragrant souks and check out some of the great museums and galleries in the quarters. See the original 19th-century architecture of the city (from when it was a small merchant town) and the traditional wooden boats on Dubai Creek.
Queen Elizabeth 2
The home of the only floating hotel in Dubai. It contains six dining and nightlife venues, an interactive history exhibition, and a licensed theatre. You do not need to stay on the ship to enjoy it.
Religious History
Jumeirah Mosque
The only mosque in Dubai open to non-Muslims (everyday except Fridays). Be sure to dress appropriately (all limbs covered, women should bring a head covering).
The Arts & Sciences
Alserkal Avenue
Alserkal Avenue is full of contradictions. An industrial space that’s home to the region's finest contemporary art galleries. A cultural district that boasts some of the most daring business concepts around. A place of carefully curated individual experiences, where everyone is welcome.
Arte Museum Dubai
Arte Museum Dubai showcases art that resonates with the natural landscapes and cultural backdrop of Dubai. This is complemented by a curated F&B space known as the ARTE TEA BAR, where visitors can enjoy a teahouse experience enriched with media art.
This museum not only delivers a vivid visual journey but also engages all the senses. From awakening soundscapes to custom-scented aromas, every element is curated to harmonize with the artworks, creating a fully immersive experience.
AYA UNIVERSE
A brand new attraction that opened in July of 2023, AYA Universe’s site says, “Travelers will play, drift, and dream as they command observatories full of stars, roam gardens blooming light, and traverse rivers that bridge the infinite. While the true nature of these chambers may never be known, spectacles will blossom, mysteries unfold, and dazzling powers unlock for visitors that stop to smell the roses.”
Dubai 3D World
Covering 21,000 square feet, the museum showcases optical illusions and 185 incredible Trick-Art paintings. Visit nine different zones which transport you back in time to Ancient Egypt, lets you explore underwater worlds, or travel to faraway jungles.
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Located in the Dubai Mall, the aquarium has a 10-million liter water tank full of over 33,000 diverse aquatic animals — including one of the world’s most giant crocodiles. See marine creatures from the bottom surface of the 11-meter high and 48-meter long tunnel, take a glass-bottom boat tour with Explorer Experience, and/or feed and even swim with rays and sharks (from inside a cage).
As you can see above, we did this and we absolutely don’t regret the price tag. We didn’t do the boat ride, but we did everything else, including seeing the penguins, seeing the “fish nursery”, and learning more about how they feed the fish and sharks in the tanks! We were there a few hours and had such an amazing time. Definitely make it a point to do this!
PRO TIP: If you want to see the Burj Khalifa as well, the aquarium tour will be free!
Dubai Astronomy Group
Check out the planetarium show and Astro cinema for some seated entertainment, or try the immersive Mars Landing Game and shuttle simulator. And, thanks to its location on the outskirts of Dubai, in the middle of Mushrif Park, it’s the perfect spot to stare into the night sky.
Dubai Frame
Resembling the world’s biggest picture frame, this Dubai landmark provides exceptional views of both old and new Dubai, depending on which way you look. Entrance tickets include a tour guide who can dish out all kinds of fascinating tidbits about the city’s architecture and history — while leading you to the glass-floored top level.
Dubai Garden Glow
Featuring over a million LED bulbs, this glow park features four different motifs — including magic, art, ice and dinosaurs. Note: It’s not open on Saturdays and National holidays.
Dubai Safari Park
Spread over 119 hectares, there are over 2,500 animals from some 250 species of all shapes and sizes, roaming around in the areas designated as Arabian, Asian, and African villages.
La Perle
This 90-minute show is filled with acrobatics and aquatic stunts in an onstage pool. It tells a story of a girl and her journey into different worlds, looking for a lost pearl. The cast of 65 Broadway-seasoned performers works every corner of the 270-degree stage to deliver a show that can only be described as hypnotic. Aside from the 5-meter deep pool, the walls inside the theater are designed to create an immersive experience like being inside a cave.
Museum of the Future
Divided into various chapters, enjoy the incredible and futuristic designs of the building’s interior with larger-than-life calligraphy, and an elevator that mimics the feeling of hopping into a spaceship. Its five floors cover themes in space, nature, technology, human senses/imagination, “tomorrow”.
Museum of Illusions
Wander through the Hall of Mirrors, experience the optical intrigue of the vortex tunnel, and test your wits with puzzles and games designed to tease the brain and challenge your visual perception.
Rain Room at the Sharjah Art Foundation
Stroll through a watery cascade without getting wet. Using state-of-the-art cameras and sensor equipment to track the movements, the installation automatically turns off the water in sections where people are standing. NOTE: Women must be covered appropriately.
Reel Cinemas
We decided to see Fast X on opening day and bought tickets to experience their Platinum Suites. It was worth the additional cost to have a lounge, full bar, butler service, and seats that are on-par with a first class flight.
TIP: Bring a sweater or scarf - the theaters are cold!
The Green Planet
A biodome featuring a tropical indoor rainforest and over 3,000 plants and animals. It also hosts the largest indoor man-made and life-sustaining tree in the world. NOTE: Visit at the end of the day, just as the nocturnal animals start to wake from their slumber.
Unique Experiences
Ain Dubai
Officially the world's largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai is 75 meters taller than the London Eye. Towering over Bluewaters Island, the wheel affords sweeping views from 250 meters in the air.
Al Marmoom Camel Race Track
Camel racing dates back to the 7th century. The grandstands are often filled with camel owners, trainers, and handlers, and most seats offer good views of the action. Remember that races start early—between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m.—and that commentary and announcements are made in Arabic.
Al Shindagha Museum: Perfume House
Positioned on the Dubai Creek within the recently renovated Al Shindagha neighborhood (once the traditional center of the emirate), the Perfume House offers the opportunity to travel back in time and discover the ages-old methods of Arabic perfume-making. You'll learn about the region’s perfume-trading route and explore the traditional oils and ingredients used to make local scents (including oud, saffron, and specific roses).
AURA Sky Pool
Located adjacent to the St. Regis (though not affiliated) in the Palm Tower, this is the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool, suspended 200 meters in the air.
We expected it to be a bit crazy, but aside from every Instagrammer taking a million pics of themselves, it was actually quite relaxing. Upon arriving (taking the elevator from a separate entrance in the St. Regis - it’s marked with a brass sign out front), we were shown to our daybed and given his and hers beach bags with a few surprises inside. They set up our bed for us, then brought us menus (it’s a pared-down version from the sushi restaurant one floor above) - we recommend the fruit and yogurt bowls if you’re doing the 10am - 2pm reservation, along with the spring rolls and pretty much any cocktail. They also had a masseuse and sunglasses cleaner on staff.
TIPS: We rented a day bed on the marina side and after trekking around the entire 360 degree view, we recommend the palm view or the city view - the latter not feeling as crowded. When you book, if you are looking for more of a relaxing time, do the morning to early afternoon one, as we saw the check-in line for the afternoon one and it looked more “energetic”. Finally, reserve a row 1 bed.
Burj Khalifa Sky Views
Ascend the world’s tallest building at 830 meters (2,723 feet). This 160-story glass-clad tower was worth $1.5 billion to build and has since attracted millions of visitors — especially to the observation decks at levels 124 and 125 (the cracked glass VR experience is on this level), and the outdoor terrace on the 148th floor (which is only accessible to people that pay for the premium ticket).
As you can see in the video above, we went up to the 148th floor to experience faster elevator service, the lounge (with small bites, tea, coffee, and juice), and better (higher) views. The staff there are incredible and are trained to take a variety of photos for you, which seem cheesy, but are actually really great! We had an amazing time and we highly recommend splurging on this level of access.
PRO TIP: If you purchase the Sky Views tickets at the at the aquarium in the mall, you will get aquarium access for free.
Deep Dive Dubai
This is the world's deepest pool with a depth of 60 meters. It boasts a sunken city for diving enthusiasts to explore and holds 14 million liters of water. Tailored entirely to water lovers, deep diving is for those with certifications only, while snorkeling on the surface and scuba-diving up to 12 meters can be undertaken by anyone over the age of 10. Given Deep Dive Dubai also acts as the region’s largest underwater film studio, packed with 56 cameras and the ability to create different moods.
Desert Safari
Strap yourself into a 4×4 and let the driver roar up, down and around the dunes at top speed. Combine it with a slow-paced camel ride, dune bashing and sandboarding, then end the day in a more relaxing fashion by indulging in a sumptuous barbecue buffet and refreshing drinks. Experience and partake in traditional Bedouin activities such as belly dancing, fire dancing and falconry.
Dubai Autodrome
Take a ride or drive a Ferrari GT, McLaren, or an F1 car!
Dubai Fountain
Multiple fountain shows are scheduled every day, shooting 22,000 gallons of water up 500 feet in the air within the 30-acre Burj Lake. Plus, a new floating viewing platform means you can get much closer to the action than before.
Helicopter Ride
You will get to see incredible landmarks like the Palm Jumeirah islands, Burj Al Arab hotel, Ras al Khor wetlands, the World Islands on the Persian Gulf. You can also take the adventure to a whole new level by booking a gyrocopter tour, flying up to 1,500 meters up in the sky, and viewing all the man-made sights.
Meydan Grandstand
This is home to the world’s richest race day- the coveted $35 million Dubai World Cup. While the pinnacle spectacle takes place in late March, the 1-mile-long, 60,000-seat grandstand hosts races from November through to April. Fun tip: This racecourse was used as a filming location for Star Trek.
Ski Dubai
Located in the Emirates mall, ski, snowboard, or tube over 22,500 square meters of fresh, manmade powder. There’s also 4,500 square meters of space to explore an ice cave, go sledding, or climb towers. Also check out the Penguin Encounter - a chance to get up close and personal with colonies of Gentoo and King penguins. Finally, ride the Snow Bullet Ride which hangs you 16 feet above the ground, as well as the Mountain Thriller Ride which transports you at a speed of up to 25 miles per hour.
Skydive Dubai
Beginners are welcome to jump in tandem with the company's experienced guides, but licensed divers can take the plunge solo. A tandem flight from Skydive Dubai's location on The Palm costs nearly $600.
The Smash Room
Choose from the pre-arranged box of destroyable objects or bring your own things to smash!
Walking Tours
Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
This quaint neighborhood offers a glimpse into what Dubai was like before the Emirates were formed in 1971. Traditional buildings crafted from stone, palm wood, gypsum, and teak line the twisted alleys and pathways—history and architecture buffs will love getting lost here.
Expo City
A modern “city of the future” designed for humans to come together and learn about various subjects in sustainability, technology, women’s contributions, nature, and more. You can check out anything from time traveling back to the beginning of the Arab empires, to today’s artificial intelligence advancements, as well as step inside the immersive Terra experiences bridging nature and human decision and impact on the earth. It’s located 26 minutes south of Dubai’s city center.
Miracle Garden
Spread across 72,000 square meters, the Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s largest flower garden, consisting of 50 million flowers and 250 million plants beautifully arranged to create an array of stunning natural sculptures (there’s a full-size Emirates plane).
While it was insanely hot (105 degrees), we braved it to see just how spectacular they are in person. We were definitely not disappointed! While we recommend cooler temperatures, it was so much fun wandering the paths to see a castle, the Kelpies, and the infamous full-size retired Emirates plane covered in colorful flowers. Check out our video review below:
Dubai Mall
The largest mall in the world gets 100 million visitors annually with over 1200 shops, 200 restaurants, and a bevy of entertainment options. We spent about 6 hours there the first day (the aquarium and Burj Khalifa took up a lot of time), dined (see dining section), and shopped.
TIP: Be careful when recording any video or taking any pictures. Security is very strict about these two things - it’s why we don’t have many of either here.
Mall of the Emirates
At half the size of the Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates has a little over 650 stores and is more or less known for Ski Dubai. They are also attached to the luxury Kempinski Hotel, which is where a lot of the wealthier crowd goes to take tea and be seen. The design of the mall is absolutely beautiful, though after being at Dubai Mall two days in a row, this felt a lot less impressive.
How to Get Around
Dubai is a very sprawled city, which requires transportation to get around. There are many ways to get places, though what you choose has more to do with how much time you have.
Rent a car
If you’re from a country that drives on the left side, then this will be super easy for you. The main highway is easy to navigate as all signs are in English and Arabic. We found it to be no different than driving in America and we wish we had rented a car to be a bit more mobile.
Uber Rides
We chose this method of transportation because it got us everywhere in 20-30 minutes. We were surprised to see that we paid no more than $30 for every ride (usually around $20) to go 30 minutes max. As a reference, we are staying at the St. Regis Palm Jumeirah and it was $30 to get to there, from the airport. In the U.S. , it would cost us nearly $100.
The Metro system
If you have no problem waiting 1-2 hours and taking transfer buses to get to your destination, then this is the cheapest option. They offer the Nol card that can be refilled as the price per fare is based on your stop, as well as the tier of metro car you want to travel in.
The Culture & What to Wear
Some say Dubai is the Miami of UAE, others say there are so many expats here it doesn’t matter. Both are true. While we saw many in their traditional dress, we also saw women in spandex pants and sports bras (which I find inappropriate in non-athletic places regardless). I chose maxi dresses and sandals as it’s so warm here, it was just more comfortable. It’s fine to wear what you’re comfortable in, though if you tour the older areas or the mosque, please respect their dress codes.
.. speaking of what to wear… if you need any laundry services, we used Laundryheap - an inexpensive pickup and delivery service that cost us less that $40 for two weeks’ worth of clothes.
A History Summary
7,000 BCE - Remnants of mangroves and a swamp were found, dating back to that time period.
3000 BCE - The coastline had moved seaward sufficiently towards the present-day coastline and the area became covered in sand.
2500 BCE - The date palm began to grow in the area and was the first instance of the land being used for agricultural purposes. Also, nomadic cattle herders began living in the area.
6th century - A caravan station was found, dating back to that time period, suggesting that it was a transient place with no inhabitants.
7th century - The Umayyads introduced Islam to the area and sparked the vitalization of the area, opening up trade routes supported by fishing and pearl diving to eastern regions such as modern-day Pakistan and India, with reports of ships traveling as far as China to trade.
1590 - The Venetian, Gasparo Balbi, a renowned pearl merchant, mentioned "Dibai" in a list of places he noted for the exceptional quality of their pearls.
1799 - The town had it’s first record.
1800 - 1833 - The Al Abu Falasa dynasty (part of the House of Al-Falasi) of the Bani Yas tribe established Dubai, which remained a dependent of Abu Dhabi until 1833.
1820 - The Sheikh of Dubai and other sheikhs in the region signed the "General Maritime Peace Treaty" with the British government, which aimed to suppress piracy in the region and was the first formal denunciation of the Arab slave trade in Emirati history.
1833 - The Al Maktoum dynasty (also descendants of the House of Al-Falasi) of the Bani Yas tribe left the settlement of Abu Dhabi and took over Dubai from the Abu Falasa clan without resistance, led by Maktoum bin Butti, the founder of the present day al-Maktoum dynasty.
1841 - The town was hit by a devastating smallpox outbreak which forced many to relocate east to the town of Deira, Dubai.
1892 - Sheikh Maktoum to sign an exclusive business deal with the British making Dubai a British protectorate.
1894 - A fire swept through Deira, burning down most of the homes - the town was rebuilt quickly. They also granted full tax exemption to foreign traders.
1903 - The Sheikh had succeeded in convincing a major British steamship line to make Dubai a port of call. Merchants from Lingah looked across to the Arab shore of the Persian Gulf finally making their homes in Dubai. Almost 1/4 of the population was non-Emerati.
1912 - Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Hasher Al Maktoum became Ruler in 1912, and is regarded by many as one of the fathers of Dubai.
1929 - The emergence of artificial pearls had begun to hit the economy of Dubai, and coupled with the effects of the depression caused the Sheikh to explore other opportunities for expansion. The emergence of Dubai as the premier re-export business port, whereby goods are imported into a duty-free port and immediately exported to another market, began.
1938 - The uprising in Dubai was the culmination of a decade of grievances and minor rebellions against the autocratic rule of Shaykh Sa'id bin Maktum.
1945 - 1958 - Upon the death of Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum became Ruler. He was known for driving massive expansion, especially with the discovery of oil.
1963 - The dredging of Dubai Creek, which allowed vessels, of any size, to dock at the port.
1969 - The first shipment of oil was made.
1973 - Dubai joined the other emirates in adopting the dirham.
1979 - A formal compromise was reached between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Abu Dhabi was allowed to control the rest of the U.A.E., while Dubai could handle their own affairs, especially as it came to trade. The Jebel Ali Free Zone was introduced in that same year, providing companies with unrestricted import of labour and export of capital, which helped to jumpstart the influx of global companies seen today.
Mid-1990s - Many foreign trading communities moved their businesses to Dubai, clusters of free zones started to pop up, the Burj Khalifa, The Palm, The World and so many other important projects began popping up.
Late 2000s - The Great Recession hit the economy of Dubai extremely hard, due dependence on sectors such as energy, tourism and especially real-estate, with reports of new construction slowing and in some cases stopping altogether.
Today - Dubai has thrived from depending on other sources of economy, rather than just oil alone (reserves are projected to run out in 2029). The population continues to increase as more jobs and housing become available, especially to ex-pats.