Activities & Attractions

Dubai is a very different destination to Africa and Oman, both so exceptionally rich in nature and cultural heritage.  Some readers may therefore wonder why we have chosen to feature this destination. We believe that Dubai has earned its place based on current and future awe-inspiring developments which include the opportunity for not just sheer fun, but also adventure and inspirational learning.

Many middle-Eastern airlines now fly to South Africa, making it is simple to combine a trip between the two regions, creating a holiday of diverse contrasts. Dubai also makes an excellent short break destination or can be combined with a stay in neighbouring Oman for a more wildlife-based experience.

Dubai features a wide variety of traditional sightseeing opportunities including the Dubai Museum, Sheikh Saeed’s House, The Bastakiya cultural walk, Jumeira Mosque, an ‘Abra’ river taxi ride or Dhow cruise.  Alternatively take off in to the desert and try camel riding or watch a falconry display.

For a modern day experience, visitors can visit the Nad Al Sheba racecourse, venue of the world’s richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup. Golfers will also appreciate the numerous internationally-acclaimed golf courses, whilst adrenalin seekers can take to the slopes at Ski Dubai, an astounding in-door snow-skiing facility or try Wadi Bashing, traversing rocky valleys in a four wheel drive.  Wild Wadi Water Park also offers a jaw-dropping range of fun rides. From hurtling down the 33 metre high Jumeirah Sceirah at 80 km per hour to cruising on the gentle current of Juha’s Journey lazy river, there is something for everyone.

Long before the discovery of oil, Dubai was known as the “City of Merchants,” welcoming traders from afar.  Today sophisticated shopping venues such as the Mall of the Emirates house designer shops alongside local merchandise.  Traditional Arabian souks are also integral to Dubai selling goods from spices to carpets, with a visit to the  fascinating gold souk a must.

Looking to the future, ‘Dubailand’, one of many developments planned, will be twice the size of Florida’s Walt Disney World Resort and feature unique entertainment experiences such as the ‘Restless Planet’ dinosaur theme park, being designed in collaboration with the Natural History Museum

Accommodation

Here we feature some excellent established hotels but the next few years will see the emergence of many more, including the world’s first underwater hotel, Hydropolis.  Dubai is a City that needs energy to fuel year-round air-conditioning and pump the network of waterways that soften its desert edges.  In the future, we hope to bring you examples of how Dubai has used its dynamism and engineering excellence to pioneer some cutting-edge tourism projects that strive to minimise the impact on the environment as well as entertain.

For further information, please see our Dubai accommodation selection page.

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