Stay in the lap of luxury: High-end resorts abound here, and your hardest decision may simply be where to stay. The Madinat Jumeirah is located right on the water and has three hotels, all with Arabian accents and charm: the Mina A’Salam, Al Qasr, and the Dar Al Masyaf. Along with deluxe rooms and numerous dining options, the Madinat Jumeirah has breathtaking views of the Burj Al Arab, the sail-shaped hotel that has become an iconic image of Dubai. A waterway with abras (water taxis) permits quick navigation of the sprawling complex, which includes it’s own souk. Another perk of staying here is that you can request a tour of the Burj Al Arab (which is not open to the general public).
One of the most buzzed-about recent openings in Dubai is Atlantis, The Palm, built at the top of the new man-made Palm Island. The resort includes a waterpark, high-end spa, and the Dolphin Bay habitat, where you can swim with the dolphins for a fee. Madinat Jumeirah: www.jumeirah.com; Atlantis, The Palm: www.atlantisthepalm.com.
Go to extremes: Dubai is an architect’s dream vacation, but the sights are just as amazing for anyone who appreciates good design. Spend a day driving around to some of the unique sites, including the Burj Dubai (the world’s tallest building and future home of the Armani Hotel), the Burj Al Arab, and the Palm Island.
Explore the creek: A trip to the city is not complete without exploring the creek area, one of the few authentic parts of Dubai. Dhows (wooden sailing vessels) still arrive daily from Asia and you can watch them unload refrigerators, televisions, and other goods. Make sure to take an abra ride while you are there. It’s a little hectic as you hop on the crowded boats, but for a small fee you can travel the waterways and jump off on the other side of the creek to explore the souks (traditional Arabian markets). While many sell cheap T-shirts and imitation designer bags, there are hidden gems to be found. Don’t forget to hit the Deira covered souk and the spice and gold souks. Be ready to haggle with vendors for a good price on pashminas and other souvenirs.
A night on the town: If you want to sample swanky Dubai nightlife – and there is plenty to sample – plan accordingly. Drinking is only allowed in hotels, so stick to one area of town or you will spend the evening criss-crossing the city in a cab to hit the bars and nightclubs located inside the numerous resorts spread across Dubai. One can’t-miss lounge is 360, located at the end of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel pier. Smoke sheesha and sip cocktails on the low chaise lounges while taking in the spectacular view of Dubai after dark. One of the newest hotspots is Sanctuary, at Atlantis, The Palm. Created by the founder of the iconic Buddha Bar, the nightclub features a dance floor surrounded by a suspended catwalk and an outdoor lounge with Majlis tents. 360: www.jumeirah.com; Sanctuary: www.atlantisthepalm.com.
Head to the desert: Dubai is a metropolitan city, so make sure you leave time in your travel plans for a trip to the desert to see more of what the UAE has to offer. The desert safaris offered by local tour companies are a very popular choice and they all include dune bashing (not for the weak of heart), falconry, camel rides, and a buffet with live music and belly dancing. If you have a few days to spare, make reservations at a desert oasis resort. One of the best known is the Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa, located 45 minutes from downtown Dubai. The resort offers a relaxing getaway with lots of high-end amenities, including an infinity pool, rooftop bar with sunset views of the desert, and an authentic Emirati restaurant. Desert safari: www.arabian-adventures.com; Bab Al Shams: www.jumeirah.com.
Fine dining: Foodies certainly won’t be disappointed since each resort tries to outdo the other with new offerings and celebrity chefs. Try Pierchic at the Madinat Jumeirah for delicious seafood in a spectacular location. Located at the end of a long wooden pier, the restaurant has unobstructed views of the Burj Al Arab. Pierchic: www.jumeirah.com
Shop your heart out: Versace. Dolce & Gabbana. Forever 21? From haute couture to American mall favorites, Dubai has retail choices for everyone. Add in the fact that all shopping is tax-free and you’re in a shopoholic’s paradise. There are over 50 shopping centers in the area, but the recently opened Dubai Mall claims to be the world’s largest. It’s located downtown next to the Burj Dubai and when fully operational will have over 1,200 stores. www.thedubaimall.com
Hit the slopes: If you’re a skier, no trip to Dubai would be complete without a stop at Ski Dubai. Housed inside the Dubai Emirates Mall, Ski Dubai lets you ski while listening to pop tunes by the likes of Kelly Clarkson. Though you probably won’t be challenged by the difficulty of the runs, it’s well worth the experience just to say you snow skied in the desert. Snowsuits, boots, and gear are included in your entry fee. www.skidxb.com
Cultural Cues: Dubai is a very cosmopolitan city, but it’s important to keep in mind that the UAE is a Muslim country. While women don’t need to be covered from head to toe, it is advisable to dress conservatively during the day. The nightlife dress code is very similar to Western countries, but remember there are certain holidays or special occasions when the sheikh will declare a “dry night.” If that case, just ask the bartender for the mocktail list and enjoy one of the delicious fake cocktails on nights when you can’t have the real thing.
