Dubai is like this wonderworld of technology, architecture and nature. It’s luxury at its finest, with a nightlife that’ll be hard to find elsewhere. From skyhigh buildings to shark diving experiences, these are the 7 things you can only experience in the city.
Full Moon Drumming in the Desert
Head out on the sand to make music under the moonlight with Dubai Drums. They combine rhythmic tribal drumming with a relaxed family-friendly environment so everyone can get involved. Plus, it’s been proven that playing music in a group releases endorphins, so it’s a great way to get that happy vibe going.
Touch the Sky from the Burj Khalifa
For those with vertigo, you’ll want to skip this, but for the rest of us — the Burj Khalifa is something you can’t miss. As the tallest building in the world, it stands at 2,722 feet talk (that’s over half a mile). Take the “travelator” that shows you the history of Dubai before ending up on the 124th floor to witness the skyline from this awe-inspiring height. To reach the very top, you’ll need to book a Sky Experience. This takes you to the highest outdoor observatory in the world, right up on the 148th floor, and includes interactive experiences of the surrounding areas.
Go for Gold Souk
Ever look around your home and think “sure, this is nice, but it would be nicer if everything was dipped in gold.” Well, someone in Dubai has already one-upped you. The Gold Souk is the place to buy everything gold-, diamond- and jewellery-based. Even if you’re not flashy, it’s worth going to haggle with some of the local traders. Open every day from 10am-10pm (except Friday when it opens at 4 pm).
Swim with Sharks at Dubai Aquarium
No need to grab a boat and head out to the ocean, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo has created a Shark Encounter experience right in the city. Safely enclosed in a diving cage, visitors can witness sharks being fed just inches away from the frenzy. This 30-minute experience also includes a tour of the shark facilities, feeding of shark babies (so cute) and a demonstration on how the Aquarium breeds its sharks. Not for the faint-hearted.
Ski the Slopes… Indoors
In the Mall of the Emirates, which is just one of the largest malls in Dubai, is Ski Dubai. This winter wonderland was created for families to enjoy the pleasures of skiing without heading to the mountains. To add to the ridiculousness of skiing in Dubai, you can also book a visit to meet one of the Snow Penguins that are let out of their enclosure a few times a day.
Have a Drink in a Sub-Zero Bar
Keep your coats on after skiing and visit the Middle East’s first sub-zero lounge bar, Chill Out Dubai. Maintaining a temperature of an amazing 21°F, you might want to order a hot chocolate rather than a refreshing cocktail. But there’s no doubt this is a must-see for all travelers.
Bonus: Speed in Abu Dhabi
Yeah, Abu Dhabi is a totally different city, but it’s only 90 minutes away by car. And in this city, only one speed counts, and that speed is: FAST. If you’ve been in UAE for a few days, you probably noticed the Maseratis speeding past you in the city streets. So join the other petrol-heads at Yas Marina, the gorgeously-designed circuit which hosts the country’s inaugural Grand Prix. If you’re not in town when the races are happening, then why not take out an F1 vehicle for a single-seater experience.
As Dubai continues to emerge as a trendy destination, we’ll be sure you’re confident you’re finding the right flight for the best price.
