Dashing Through Dubai
By Dani Johnson
Dubai is a unique and trending metropolis where travelers can experience luxury and adventure. It’s located in the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula and is one of the United Arab Emirates, (UAE) situated on the Persian Gulf. The climate in Dubai ranges from hot to very hot, with the most scorching temperatures between June and August with average temperatures around 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The shoulder seasons are expected to bring temperatures around 79 degrees Fahrenheit from April to May and September through October.
Dubai is most known for its man-made islands, shopping malls, annual festivals, skyscrapers, Michelin star dining experiences, and glowing atmosphere. Not only is Dubai a buzzing business hub with a lively nightlife, but it’s a city where many immigrate from near and far to call home. Under 15% of the population are native Emiratis. Dubai is a destination for iconic sights like the Burj Khalifa, where you can literally stand (or sit) on top of the world. The Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building sitting at about 2,716 feet. On your way to the top of the building, you can ride the world’s fastest elevator, traveling from the ground to the 124th floor in 60 seconds.
The time difference between the east coast U.S. and Dubai is 8 hours. Travelers can expect to be in flight for at least 14 hours. There are daily direct flights to Dubai leaving Newark Liberty International Airport on United. If you prefer to break up the distance, more options like Emirates, Air Canada, SWISS, Lufthansa, Etihad, and Turkish airlines have layovers in cities like Frankfurt, Zurich, or Abu Dhabi. Upon arrival at Dubai airport, expect at least a ten-minute shuttle from the plane to the airport terminal to stretch your legs before proceeding through immigration. The process for a visa is not difficult and visas are granted upon arrival at no cost, unlike other destinations in the Middle East. Be sure your passport is valid for a minimum of six months from your dates of travel and at least two blank pages are available for your visa.
When traveling to any country, it’s always a good idea to obtain a sim card from the country you are visiting. Imagine a panic setting in when you land and you have no cellular service—a millennial’s worst nightmare and most Gen Zers would likely go into a full-on panic attack. To avoid such frightening circumstances, a savvy alternative would be to download an e-sim prior to your trip. Unless of course, you would prefer to spend the first few hours of your limited vacation time scrambling the city for a sim card or waiting to arrive to your hotel for wi-fi. I’ve been there, save yourself. Time and energy is limited when on vacation, so do yourself a favor and minimize frustration. Uber is available at Dubai airport.
Dubai is not a destination for the frugal to thrive. This expedition can get expensive. I would recommend hiring a travel advisor to create and plan an itinerary with knowledgeable and local tour vendors so you can make the most of your time and control cost. Often, an itinerary can be customized, structured, inclusive of meals, excursions, transportation, and snacks. Again, save yourself the hassle of finding and booking things to do on your own. Hiring an agent will get you exclusive access to pre-booked tickets, knowledgeable tour guides, and the chance to skip lines at the highly sought after sites at pre-negotiated prices for travel groups. The local currency in the UAE is called the dirham (AED). I would suggest having U.S. cash on hand before leaving home and get some dirham when you arrive. Exchange money as soon as possible to make purchases in the local currency and avoid foreign exchange fees on your credit card. This also helps with managing the budget. That money could be better spent on a jet ski or a dinner cruise. But if you didn’t get to the bank prior to boarding, another way to get local cash is to use a local ATM but prepare to face charges from your home bank on your next statement.
The culture in Dubai is alive, moving, and almost tangible. Some Americans may consider specific aspects of the culture in Dubai to be strict, especially in such heat. The culture of this city is deeply rooted in the Emirati heritage which values family, respect, and hospitality. There is still no shortage of panache, chic, and style with a modern flare. This isn’t the place to publicly flaunt the abs and curves you’ve been chiseling in the gym for the past nine months. Bathing suits are only acceptable on the beach; otherwise, modest attire is the standard.
Dubai is very diverse and inclusive while keeping Islam as the predominant religion. Traditional clothing is often worn alongside more modern yet conservative fashion. The mosques such as the Jumeirah Mosque will showcase Islamic culture and traditions. The government encourages tolerance of many religions encouraging interfaith dialogue and understanding. The people of the city hold true to Islamic beliefs which discourages eating, drinking, and smoking in public places. Ramadan is typically observed from mid-February to mid-March and Muslims will fast from dawn until sunset. This is typically a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and increased devotion through prayers and reading the Quran. Eating in public especially during Ramadan is considered disrespectful. The Eid al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. Lasting for 3 days after Ramadan, begins with a special prayer in the mosques and is typically attended by the community in your finest traditional attire.
There’s plenty to do and see in Dubai. Throughout the year this is where unique festivals are hosted such as the Dubai Food Festival, which is an annual culinary event in February. Many world renown celebrity chefs have been featured along with special menus and tastings. The International Film Festival celebrates and highlights international and Arabic films. For those who love to shop and get a great deal for designer merch, there is the Shopping Festival. Dubai is a global shopping destination, and the festival is sure to deliver concerts, exclusive discounts, raffle drawings with luxurious prizes, and other entertainment. The Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls globally and features an underwater aquarium with 3,300 aquatic animals across 140 different species. There are many other festivals hosted in Dubai from technology to fitness to the international motor show.
The Dubai Frame is the biggest picture frame in the world, sitting at 492 feet high and 312 feet wide. It is comprised of glass, steel, aluminum, and reinforced concrete. This frame is intentionally positioned so that representative landmarks of Dubai can be seen from one side, while on the other side, visitors can view older parts of the city. The many activities on the desert are certainly a highlight of the destination. There are desert safaris, dune bashing, camel riding, and sand boarding. You can even channel your inner empress by doing the Instagram-able flying dress photoshoot in the desert. If your travel agent is gifted, she might arrange for you to enjoy dinner at the dessert with chilled soft beverages and drinks while taking in live entertainment like belly dancing and a fire show. You simply must do a traditional Dhow cruise and enjoy a 2-hour dinner along the Dubai Creek or the Dubai Marina, taking in the scenic views of the skyline and the sunset. Another alternative for lunch or dinner would be dinner in the sky at 164 feet overlooking the distance.
The capital city of Dubai is Abu Dhabi, a stop on the tour worthy of at least a full day. There you will find the Emirates Palace and all its royal glory. Picture chandeliers glittering and elaborate domes embellished in gold, mother-of pearl, and crystals. The Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque is fully covered with Macedonian marble and stands as a landmark building. It is the most popular sightseeing attraction in Abu Dhabi. To view this mosque, visitors must be covered completely from head to toe. The Louvre in Abu Dhabi is a museum that traces the history of artistic achievements from neolithic times to the present day. Ferrari World is another must do activity in Abu Dhabi. It’s a theme park exhibiting Formula One racing, a Farrari collection displaying models back to 1947, a Ferrari factory, and a Ferrari game show.
There is a wide range of hotel accommodation in Dubai. Many of the hotels offer wi-fi, flat screen TVs, and floor to ceiling windows for optimal views. For luxury guests, the Burj Al Arab is a sail shaped building on a man-made island. The rooms are equipped with Egyptian linens, 24 carat gold iPads, butler service, a helipad, a luxury spa and more. The very posh Atlantis The Palm is on the Palm Jumeirah Island in the Arabian Gulf, close to a water park and upscale shops in the Mall of the Emirates. Upgraded suites there are set in the water tank of an aquarium. There are 23 restaurants on the property. The Paramount hotel in the modern Business Bay district has an Old Hollywood theme and is close to Dubai Mall. This property can offer fabulous city views upon request. The Sheraton Grand hotel is in the national business district near the Dubai World Trade Center, the city metro, and Dubai Mall.
When it comes to Dubai, the list of activities goes on and on. There is something for everyone at varying price ranges and interest levels. Whether you’re into architecture, art, history, fast cars, fine jewelry, relaxation, or if you’re a foodie and want to experience inspiring foods from around the world, a little bit of everything is in Dubai. Be mindful of the time of year and the climate and wear good sweat resistant sunscreen. Be cognizant and respectful of the culture and watch out for potential pick-pocketers. The sights and heights are breathtaking and heart quivering, so be prepared to be blown away by this iconic destination.
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