Dubai — Arab Gulf Tiger
Dubai is a city and emirate in the United Arab Emirates known for luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture and a lively nightlife scene. Burj Khalifa, an 830m-tall tower, dominates the skyscraper-filled skyline. At its foot lies Dubai Fountain, with jets and lights choreographed to music. On artificial islands just offshore is Atlantis, The Palm, a resort with water and marine-animal parks.
Within City: Quick refreshment
1. Ferrari World: Ranking as one of the best family places to visit in Dubai, Ferrari world is the world’s largest indoor theme park which doesn’t fail to surprise the kids. There are around 17 Ferrari-rides and attractions which adorns the place. Apart from that the place also ensures that the visitors also enjoy a fine-dine experience and shopping. Timings: 11AM-8PM. Location: Ferrari World, Abu Dhabi. Price: INR 4,950 per adult.
2. Kidzania Dubai: Kidzania is a perfect place to start the adventurous expedition with your kids while in Dubai. From learning and witnessing the Kinder chocolate factory to Flight Simulator, there are a lot of educative things to do around at this place. There are role-play activities for kids to enjoy and also themed packages which will surely enhance your skills. Timings: 9AM-11PM. Location: Dubai Mall, Financial Centre Road, Dubai. Price: INR 1,398 (For Adults), INR 3,449 (For Kids).
3. Dubai Marina: One of the most sought after attractions, Dubai Marina is a posh waterfront neighborhood where you can enjoy a fine dining experience. It is one of the elite places to go in Dubai with family where tourists come from all around the world. You must enjoy dinner on the dhow cruise that stands over the water and enjoy the views of high rise buildings surrounding you. Location: Residential district in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
4. Desert Safari Dubai: When it comes to the best things to do in Dubai, the Desert Safari comes on top. The Dubai Desert is one of the best places to see with family and its experience is even better. Combining dune bashing, sunset camel ride, safari, and a traditional Arabian right experience, go for this one if you are a lover of all things authentic. Timings: 8:30 Am — 11:30 AM (Morning), 4:00 PM — 10:00 PM (Evening), 4:00 PM — 9:00 AM (Overnight). Entry Fee: For package prices, refer to the website below.
5. The Dubai Fountain: The Dubai Fountain is one of the best places to visit in Dubai with parents. This is the world’s tallest performing fountain is a delight for those who witness it. At more than 900 feet in length, its size equals to more than two football fields. The fountain performs to a range of Arabic songs from classical to contemporary is a treat for the senses. To further elevate their experience, travelers can also take the Dubai Fountain Lake Ride at the same time the fountain is performing. Offering a front seat to the best sound and light show in the world, we are sure you will not regret this. Timings: 7:00 PM — 11:00 PM. Entry Fee: Free. Location: Fashion Parking — Dubai Mall — Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd — Dubai — United Arab Emirates.
Theme Parks: Thrills that give you Chills.
1. Aquaventure Waterpark: You are just a one-day ticket away from the entering into the magical aquatic world which is ready to welcome you with an assortment of water games for making the most of your time at Dubai.Housed by the famous Atlantis Palm Resort in Dubai, the Aquaventure Waterparkis one of the toprated Dubai water parks and the best theme of the Middle East and Europe.Sprawling over an area of 17 hectares, Aquaventure Waterpark boasts of its hair-springing water sports and adventure games like riding through shark tunnels, careering down the cockscrew chutes, Splasher’s Island safari and chilling out at the river side.Timings: 10:00AM-6:00PM. Location: Crescent Road, Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Price: 100 AED/ 2000 INR.
2. IMG Worlds of Adventure: IMG Worlds of Adventure takes you to the Jurassic world which features more than 20 types of adrenaline charged rides and adventure games based on the famous cartoon and comic characters. The area of the indoor park surpasses the size of 28 football fields and remains open throughout the year in an air-conditioned environment.Maintained by the Ilyas & Mustafa Galadari Group the IMG Worlds of Adventure is the first mega theme park in Dubai. The park features 4 adventure zones among which one is entirely themed upon spine-tingling dinosaurs and will take you back to the fantasy world of Jurassic Park.Timings: 11:00am-8:00pm (Sun-Wed), 11:00am-10:00pm (Thurs-Sat). Location: Sheikh Muhammad Bin Zayed Road, City of Arabia, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Price: AED 200/ 3900 INR.
3. Legoland Water Park: This is the only water park in the region which caters to the need andentertainment of children and adults. Located at Dubai Parks and Resorts, the theme park in Dubai has everything to amuse their guests whose age ranges from (2–12) years.There are over 15 water slides including wave pool, tube slides, family raft and others. It is the only park in the Emirates in which water games for toddlers are designed in a child friendly way and by maintaining proper hygiene.Your little one will love too cool off splashing and diving in the carefully designed pool to combat the torrid heat of UAE. Don’t forget to let your kid take on the Joker Soaker, go on a splash safari, create your own LEGO raft, or do something crazier.Timings: 10 am to 7 pm. Location: Jebel Ali, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Price: 250 AED/ 4800 INR.
4. Ski Dubai: As the name suggests, it is the world’slargest indoor ski slope located in the world famous Dubai Mall of the Emirates. The park offers you a free style zone where you can try your guts for some real adrenalin-charged activities.And if you want to meet the doting, timid friend from the far-off Arctic region and want to spend some playful moments with them, the Snow Penguin family is all there to welcome you in their circle.You can also take a crash course of the basics of skiing or even learn the tricks to sharpen your skills of the sport by the qualified instructors. Don’t miss out the show of March of the Penguins which is telecast free of cost.Timings: 10:00am-11:00pm (Sun-Thurs), 9:00am-10:00pm (Fri), 9:00 am-11:00 pm (Sat). Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Interchange 4, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Price: AED 200/ 3900 INR.
5. Bollywood Park: The Bollywood Parks at Dubai Parks and Resorts is world’s largest theme park with Bollywood theme orientation. The park offers you exhilarating experience of adventure, fun, romance, dance and action within its precincts.The 5 different zones of this Dubai theme park are Bollywood Boulevard, Mumbai Chowk, Rustic Ravine, Royal Plaza and Bollywood Film and Studios where in each zone you can witness a slice of Mumbai city in the arid land of the Middle East, watch live entertainment shows or meet your favourite Bollywood star in an action role.The lavish display of cafes in Dubai will allure you for a rocking party with friends and family.Timings: 1:00pm-10:00pm (Sat-Wed), 1:00pm-11:00pm (Thurs & Fri). Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, E 11 Exit 5, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Price: AED 165/ INR 3,632.
Beaches — the wild waters.
1. Jumeirah Beach: The sun-kissed beaches in Dubai have attracted tourists from all over the world because of the spectacular view of the Persian Gulf. The Jumeirah Beach is one of the most famous places to visit in Dubai and it is known for its white sands. The soft and clear, fine granules let your feet sink right in.Enjoy a spectacular view of the seven-star Burj-Al-Arab in Dubai, and the stunning monument is set against Dubai’s coast and is a sight to marvel at. Best visited to watch the sunset, the sands turning a deep shade of gold and the waters comfortably warm. Jumeirah beach promises you a perfect evening for your ideal tropical holiday.Highlights: You will find a string of cafes, barbeques, palm trees, desert gardens, children’s parks etc. It has a nice ambience for family and is ideal for picnics, and afternoon and evening getaways.Location: Jumeirah District, Dubai. Timings: 7:30 AM to 10:30 PM.
2. Kite Beach: Located across the Al Manara Road junction, the Kite Beach is apt to its name. The beach sees thousands of tourists every year, who visit this beach specifically to enjoy extreme sports in Dubai and participate in kitesurfing. That’s what the beach gets its name from. The beach is family friendly and teems with tourists throughout the year.The sands are soft and clean, and the pristine white texture will relax your soul. You have a great view of the Burj–Al–Arab from the beach too. There are other places available to enjoy here apart from kite surfing, namely beach volleyball, beach tennis, kayaking, soap football etc. There are a lot of facilities available too, which make your time worthwhile here. There are many amazing resorts in Dubai where you can stay & relax. Highlights: On Friday and Saturday, the beachside teems with a seaside market that sells art and craft items, souvenirs to take home etc. Location: 35 A St — Dubai — United Arab Emirates. Timings: Open 24 hours.
3. Al Sufouh Beach: It can be tough to find tranquil beaches in Dubai unless they’re privately owned. Tourists flock to these stretches of sand, eager to try water sports, swim or just relax. Yet Al Sufouh Beach is exactly that tranquil. There are many famous theme parks in Dubai near this beach.It’s the perfect location for couples, solo travelers and anyone looking to get away from the crowd. If Dubai’s buzz feels a little overwhelming, unwind at Al Sufouh Beach, also known as Black Palace Beach. This bit of oasis will de-stress and energize so you can get back to exploring Dubai’s many sights and sounds. Highlights: Great views of Dubai’s iconic landmarks such as the Burj Al Arab and the Palm Jumeirah. Location: 44 33a Street — Dubai — United Arab Emirates. Timings: Open 24 hours.
4. Sunset Beach: Most of you might be thinking that there are just a few beaches in Dubai which are famous people. Then let us tell you about this another wonderful beach in Dubai, the sunset beach. Known for its beauty and the soulful surroundings this beach provides you with the direct view of Burj Al Arab. Sunset beach is presumably the city’s most shot shoreline and albeit just the most fundamental of offices are accessible, it’s as yet one of the busiest with families, sunbathers, picnickers and even surfers. The quiet sands of Sunset Beach, situated behind Sunset Mall in Jumeirah, give the ideal area to unwind with the sun, sand, and pleasant Arabian Gulf. It’s one of the calmer spots along the drift, and furthermore one of the most stretched out, giving a lovely chance to morning runs and walks around the setting sun. Highlights: The beach is famous for its amazing sunset and long strolls. Location: The sunset beach is located behind Sunset Mall in Jumeirah. Timings: Open 24 hours.
5. Mercato Beach: Mercato Beach was once frequented mostly by locals and was often considered a hidden gem of sorts. However, with the current development work going on, visitors are eagerly waiting to see the new facilities.There are tables and bean bags to sink into and artificial lighting for those who find themselves reading beyond daylight. And, if you want to do a spot of shopping, Mercato Shopping Mall is located nearby. If you’re looking for a beach with a peaceful ambience but aren’t seeking isolation and can’t do without modern facilities, Mercato Beach is it. Highlights: Mercato Beach features a jogging track, a promenade and even a beach library for bibliophiles. Library kiosks dot the area, and you can take out books of your choice at absolutely no charge. Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 2, Dubai. Timings: Open 24 hours.
National parks: Wild Splendour
1. Mushrif Park: Mushrif Park is a family-oriented park in Dubai which was opened to public in 1982 by the Dubai Municipality. The park is located in the East of Dubai city, Deira, and spans 5.25 square kilometres in area. The international village at Mushrif Park comprises of 13 models of Arabic and English houses.The park has a great entertainment setting too, with electronic games, barbecue and trip areas and pool services. There are play areas for children and adult sports playground for games like basketball, volleyball and handball. You would also find walking pavements and bicycle tracks, prayer rooms, green areas, restaurants, canteens, train ride services, camel and horse riding, park theatre, and facilities for people with special needs. Entry fee: INR 60. Timings: 8am — 10pm
2. Dubai National Park: The story of the Dubai National Park is pretty interesting. In 1997, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, highly inspired by the South African Game Reserves, purchased around 87 square miles of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. The reserve was earlier used to tame camels, but gradually it has become a fenced shelter for native animals. Interestingly, the park has 6000 species of trees, beautiful grasses and shrubs.Dubai National Park is an initiative to protect the ecosystem. You will find several animals including, the Sand Gazelle, the Statuesque Arabian Gazelle, and the Plethora. Other species include the Side-Winding Vipers, the Rueppell’s Fox, the Ethiopian hedgehog and the Curious Sand Cats. Many other animals have been added to make the park more attractive. The takes special measures to protect the endangered species.Entry fee: INR 60. Timings: 6am — 6pm.
3. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) is a wide spectacular area in the desert, spanning 225km across the dunes. It is an initiative protect and preserve the desert wildlife. DDCR permits only some select operators to host desert safari on the four-wheel-drives. You can also enjoy a safari on the ‘ship of the desert’ in camel treks, witness the speed and swiftness of the falcons and enjoy horse riding.You can also try your hands at archery, sand boarding, and fat biking. Apart from this, there also other entertaining options like, hot air ballooning, night safari, desert camping, and wildlife drives. Don’t miss out to try the desert yummy cuisines in dune dinner or a private desert dinner.Timings: 7am — 5pm (safari timings).
4. Sharjah National Park: Sharjah National Park is basically is a leisure park in Sharjah city of United Arab Emirates. Spread over 630 thousand square feet of area, the park is the largest in the city. With multiple small play areas including big size jungle gym with slides, rope ladders, this has become a popular space for community get togethers. There are also rides, sports courts, benches, and green areas. Sharjah National Park is a diamond in the ‘Park City’, as there are already around 50 parks in Sharjah.Entry fee: INR 120. Timings: 8am — 10pm
Monuments: A dive into Tradition and culture
1. Grand Mosque: Exhibiting the true Islamic architecture, Grand Mosque in Dubai is the epitome of Dubai’s cultural and religious heritage. Quranic inscriptions on the entrance facade, tallest Minaret in the city, small and large domes, and authentic Islamic interiors provide the visitors first-hand experience about Islamic traditions and culture. The essence of peacefulness and spirituality fills the ambiance of this charming place of worship.
2. Burj Khalifa: Being the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa not only showcases brilliant modern architecture and engineering but also marvellous imagination and implementation. Standing 160 storeys tall, this monument allows the visitor to witness the mesmerizing 360 aerial views of the city of Dubai. To add to this surreal experience, the base of this mighty building is nothing less than a vibrant hub of dining and entertainment. This is one of the most famous Dubai monuments attracting tourists from all over the world.
3. Burj Nahar: Built in 1870, Burj Nahar blankets three watchtowers that were constructed to protect the old city from invaders. Constructed with mud and coral-stone, this monument has historical importance attached to it. Located on the outskirts of Deira, this monument was fully restored and now is surrounded by scenic gardens, making it a popular attraction for tourists worldwide.
4. Burj Al Arab Jumeirah: Connected with a bridge to the shore, hotel Burj Al Arab Jumeirah earned its place under the list of Dubai monuments by virtue of its sail-like architectural silhouette. This state-of-the-art construction is the third tallest hotel in the world. Highest level of lavish and luxurious interiors, establishment on an artificially created island, and unique architecture have shot up the hotel to the first rank on the list of most expensive hotels in the world.
5. Bastakiya Quarters: Sitting amongst the modern constructions and luxury hotels, Bastakiya Quarters aka Al Fahidi Fort is one of the oldest residential areas in Dubai allowing visitors to get hands-on experience of the culture and lives of ancient Dubai. Beautifully carved wooden doors, wooden lattices, and narrow winding lanes will surely transport your mind to the oldcity. Home to many cafes, art galleries, boutique hotels, and the famous Dubai Museum, Al Fahidi Fort is a must visit for those who are looking to get an insight into the dynamic history of Dubai.
Wildlife sanctuaries: Experience the Wilderness of nature
1. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary: Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a wetland reserve which is blessed with the quality of attracting large number of migratory birds, every year. Not just birds, the sanctuary has a huge number of crustaceans, small mammals and fishes. The place is dominated by a large flock of Flamingos, who gather here during winters. Other than Flamingos, you can also spot some grey herons, great egrets, reef herons, cormorants, black-winged stilts, sandpipers, osprey and many other wilds.Titled as the ‘Cape of the Creek,’ Ras Al Khor is closely monitored and protected by the Dubai Municipality. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary that covers an area of 6km is a favourable habitat for the birds as it features a variety of salt flats, intertidal mudflats, mangroves, and lagoons for the birds to use for their nests and individual habitats. Entry fee: INR 60. Timings: 6am — 6pm.
2. Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve: Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is the first unfenced conservation reserve in the United Arab Emirates. Located in the desert area of Seih Al Salam in Dubai, comprises around 10% of the total land area of the emirate, including the extensive man-made desert wetlands, the Al Qudra Lakes.Managed by the Dubai Municipality, the Reserve currently has a number of animal and bird observation platforms, star and sunset observation points and a one of the world’s largest cycling track (84km). The wide landscape and clear sky of desert makes it a great place for stargazing. Camel racing events are also organised here.Entry fee: INR 60. Timings: 8am — 8pm (Sat- Thu).
3. BU Tinah: BU Tinah is a protected private nature reserve which is a small archipelago in the centre of coral formations and seagrass beds some 25 km south of Zirku and 35 north of Marawah, near Dubai. Located in the sea near Abu Dhabi, BU Tinah has a rich biodiversity and has been a recognized UNESCO site since 2001. The place has extensive coral reefs and is also rich in marine life. Animals, fishes and birds including flamingo, dolphins, hawksbill turtle and many others are found here.Entry fee: Prohibited to the visitors.
Honeymoon places: World of love and care
1. Dubai Marina 5 Star Dinner Cruise: Some people enjoy the fireworks at night and some people fall in love with the panoramic view during the evening hues. The Marina is an assemblage of the marina, the JBR, the walk and the beach. The sky-high building, cafes, bars, shops, creeks, and speed boats, there is nothing you don’t get here.It’s an ideal location for capturing the best photographs in Dubai for a honeymoon. Dubai Marina is one of the places to visit in Dubai for a honeymoon.Things to do: Mostly, this place is a paradise to walk. Watching the skyscrapers in the night along with a number of cruises sailing in the sea is a rare sight but beautiful to witness. A photography walk can bestow you with some amazing pictures.Location: Dubai Marina is located on the interchange 5, around 20 miles away from downtown. This is a stretch of some kilometres that has restaurants, open space, shoreline, view of the buildings and the sea.
2. The Dubai Fountain: Witnessing the spectacular hour show with your spouse while having dinner is a moment that you will never forget. The Dubai Fountain mesmerized thousands of visitors every day. It is as huge as two combined football pitches. The water shoots up to a height that is impressive and hard to be unnoticed.Location: It’s a part of the Dubai Mall Fashion Parking. The Dubai Mall is located on the Sheikh Mohammedbin Rashid Blvd.Things to do: You can take a lake ride to witness the colors and lights follow each other in the skyline for 65 AED (approx.)
3. Dubai Luxury Yacht Tour: When it comes to Dubai honeymoon places, the city knocks it out of the park with architectural wonders that will leave you mesmerized and spectacular sights that will make your jaw drop. A luxury yacht tour will let you cover these iconic landmarks in a romantic and intimate setting.Enjoy the clear blue waters of the gulf in a 65 feet yacht comprising of comfortable lounge areas, a spacious flybridge, and an upper deck offering awe-inspiring views of the global city. Experience world-class hospitality with seasoned captain and crew and dig into delicious breakfasts and barbecue.Location: Dubai Marina. Dubai. Things to do: Sightseeing, red carpet departure, cruise. Opening Hours: 9 am to 8 pm.
4. Dubai Creek Cruise: Get the most out of your honeymoon in Dubai by taking a water taxi to Dubai Creek. The saltwater body divides the city into two and offers some of the most exotic views of the famous Dubai skyline. Crank romance up a notch by arranging an intimate dinner at the traditional Arabian wooden sailboat called dhow, and cruise along the clear waters as you gaze with wonder at the iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab.If you happen to catch a tour early in the morning, you will be able to catch some peaceful moments with your beloved.Location: Dubai Creek, Dubai, UAE. Things to do: dinner or traditional dhow boats, cruise, sightseeing. Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm.
5. Dubai Miracle Garden: Of all the Dubai honeymoon places, nothing will fill you up with joy like Miracle Garden. Various species of colourful flowers stretched out as far as the eye can see, the 72000 square meter garden displays structures completely drowned by vibrant flowers. Walkthrough the exhibits with your beloved, smelling over 50 million blooming flowers and soaking in the goofy layouts.Pyramids and houses made entirely from flowers are quite common, as is the Butterfly Garden featuring 15,000 butterflies fluttering about in the air. Since the park is only open during winter months, you need to plan your visit accordingly.Location: Al Barsha South 3 — Dubai — United Arab Emirates. Things to do: Nature walks, looking at and smelling the flowers. Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm.
Religious places: Experience subtlety
1. Al-Jumeirah Mosque: Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). ReligiousExperience Seekers, Wanderers, God Lovers, Nirvana Seekers. Timings: 10:00 AM — 08:00 PM
2. Grand Mosque: Location: Ali Bin Abi Taleb Street, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). ReligiousExperience Seekers, God Lovers, History Buffs, Nirvana Seekers. Timings: 09:00 AM — 10:00 PM.
3. Gurudwara Jebel Ali: Location: Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar, Near Jebel Ali Hospital, JebelAli, dubai, UAE. Gurudwara. God Lovers, Nirvana Seekers. Timings: 04:30 AM — 09:30 PM
Local Business:
Construction. Construction of high-rise buildings and skyscrapers in Dubai is not slowing down, Handyman, Beauty and Hair Salon, Real Estate Agents, Oil and Gas, Travel and Tourism, Job Agencies.
Medical Emergencies:
1. King’s College Hospital Dubai: East Exit — Alkhail Street — Al Marabea’ St. Open 24 hours. Contact: +971 4 247 7777.
2. Canadian Specialist Hospital: Behind Ministry of Environment and Water. Open 24 hours. Contact: +971 4 707 2222.
3. Medeor 24×7 Hospital, Dubai: Dubai — United Arab Emirates. Open 24 hours. Contact: +971 800 900600
4. American Hospital Dubai — Dubai Media City Clinic. Business Central Towers · In Business Central Towers. Open ⋅ Closes 8PM. Contact: +971 800 24392
5. Mediclinic City Hospital North Wing: Building 35 Dubai Healthcare City. Open 24 hours. Contact: +971 4 435 9999