Arabian Dhow Cruises
Dubbed the world biggest dhow restaurant, this dhow has evening cruise up the Dubia Creek. It is definitely the best way to experience the creek and enjoy a bit of the arabian flare. more
Bastakiah Nights
This is a lovely restaurant in a wonderful setting that give an Arabic flavour; set in the great part of town which reflects the old Dubai not far from the Dubai Creek and Souq. more
Al Bandar
Another restaurant on the Creek near the heritage village. It is a fish resatuarant and you can choose your fish from a small boat before it is prepared for you.
It really is an idylic setting, especially when the sun is going down and the lights come on across the creek. Even if you don't eat it's nice to have a drink here, well a juice. more
Kanzaman Restaurant
This is a really wonderful part of the city. The resturant is located near the Heritage Village on the Creek. There a few restaurants along this parade, as it is such a perfect setting. They serve authentic arabic/lebonese food at a really reasonable price. The evening can be a little chilly along the Creek but it's nice to eat al fresco. more
Zaatar W Zeit
Trying a bit of local fast food - well it isn't really local; I believe the company originates from Lebanon. So it’s regional and that fine.
The food was nice and it was nice not eating American fast food for a change.
I can't remember the name of the sandwich I had but it was a bit like a fajitas with lamb, cheese, tomato and mayonnaise. It was quite large probably around 30 cm long. more
Ski Dubai
What is the last thing you would ever think about doing in the middle of the desert - and that Ski.
They market themselves as having 5 runs, but there are two basic runs more or less green/bleu. If you've skiied out doors this will probably be quite boring, but it is a good place to practice techniques. The two hour pass costs around £9 and they provide everything except hat and gloves. more
The Souqs
Souqs are markets or bazaars, and there are few around Dubai. The main ones are in Deira - the Gold and Spice Souq, and then in Bur Dubai the Dubia Old Souq.
To cross the creek take one of the water taxis (aka Abra) they are so cheap. I paid around 13p, it is a very short ride but it's fun. more
Mall of the Emirates
This is the largest shopping mall outside of North America. But it really is a fantastic experience. There is so much to do here not to mention - Ski Dubai.
To be fair ther are many malls in Dubai: the Wafi mall has a Egyptian feel and is set within three pyramids. Also across the Creek is the Deira City Centre Shopping Mall and all of them carry the big international brands like Debenhams, M&S, Radio Shack, Carrefour, etc. more
Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House
Sheikh Saeed's House overlooks the mouth of the Creek in Shindagha area, amongst the many restaurnats.
It was official residence of Sheikhs Saeed Al Maktoum, between 1912-1958 who was the grandfather of the present Ruler, Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The building dates back to 1896 and houses a rare Collection of historic photographs, coins, stamps and documents that record Dubai's history. more
Big Bus Tour
A way to expereince the city, this hop on hop off buses are cool. I found it a little expensive, but they do offer a few freebies like entrance to the Dubai Museum, a dhow cruise and entrance to Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House etc. more
Basta Art Cafe
To have a look at modern Arabic art, this is the best place to visit. The evening I went seemed a bit special as they had drinks, cheese, dates, fruits and chocolate - so you could munch while enjoying the exhibition.
The building is late 19 century and around this area is very picturesque and considered a heritage site. more
Dubai Museum
Set in the Al-Fahidi Fort which is the oldest building in Dubai(built in 1787), is worth visiting. It only cost 3AED and it is very basic but yet againg it provides a wonderful insight into Dubai's past. more
Uptown Bar
This bar is located on the 24th floor of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and have some wonderful views of Dubai. It's a cool relaxing place, but for men shorts aren't allowed. The staff are really friendly and it is less stuffy than at the Burj. more
Burj Al Arab
I suspect this hotel doen't need me to advertise for them. But for a really special occasion it is worth having dinner or afternoon tea at the hotel. Being as it is the world's tallest hotel and really the symbol of Dubai there are lots of tourists around taking pictures. In order to get inside you have to make a reservation and it is a wonderful experience either in the sky bar or on the first floor. more
Dubai Heritage Village
It is free to enter and is a wonderful way to get an insight into Arabian live. I'm sure Dubai has changed over the years, that it was nice to see where it came from. The exhibits are simple yet so effection, and it really definitely not to be missed on a trip to Dubai. more
Golden Sands Apartment Hotel
I was pleasantly surprised with these apartments. This company has (as far as I know) ten different appartment block. It is fairly centrally located with lots of shops around. It is only about 5-10 minutes away from the Creek. The facilities are good with pool, gym and restaurnt. Within they apartment each have washers and dryers, which is apt if staying for longer durations. more
First Class Lounge
Honestly, when you have a long transit, the best place to relax, lounge and perhaps have a warm shower, is the First Class Lounge of the Dubai International Airport. Not only will u be able to enjoy the buffet spread, you are welcomed to the drinks (any of them!). All this is free as long as you are travelling 1st class or if you are in the possession of a Diners Club Credit Card. Membership does have its privileges ! more
Arabian Adventures
Arabian adventures conducts a wide variety of tours throughout the UAE...from 1/2 day walking tours of places like Sharjah to overnight treks by 4x4 in the desert. I personally did the Sharjah walking tour and the 4x4 desert day trip through UAE and Oman to the Musandam Peninsula and mountains. Our guides were very friendly, spoke English, and were very knowledgeable about the region. Tours can be booked through most hotels in Dubai. more
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