Dubai is the world capital of glamour and modern technology, and luxury is everywhere. Nestled between the desert and the Persian Gulf, the city owes its growth to the tradition of the pearl trade. Today, it attracts not only business travellers, but also tourists, who can enjoy cheap flights to Dubai. So, aside from its high-octane glitz and exotic locale, what is the best thing about a trip to the City of Gold?
What are the most popular Dubai attractions?
Dubai has countless attractions that lure tourists from all over the world. One of the most iconic and impressive structures is the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, which offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding desert. Another amazing attraction is Dubai Mall, which is not only a shopping mecca, but also home to a huge range of entertainment, including an aquarium where thousands of sea creatures can be seen. For a taste of Dubai's traditions, a visit to the Old Town is a must, with the Golden Bazaar and Dubai Museum showcasing the history of the city and the wider region.
No guide to Dubai would be complete without mentioning the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island in the shape of a palm tree packed with exclusive hotels, restaurants and a nightclub. Another special attraction is a ride on the fully automated metro, where the carriages are not driven by drivers, but rather are remote controlled! The Red Line is the backbone of the public transport system and provides a convenient way to travel between the city centre and other attractions in Dubai, such as Palm Jumeirah Island.
What's the climate like in Dubai?
Dubai is known for its desert climate with long, hot and dry months. Summer temperatures can exceed 40 degrees celsius, so make sure you wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen when travelling during this time. The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter season, from October to April, when temperatures are more moderate. Bear in mind, however, that the nights can be cooler, so it is advisable to bring a light covering.
What customs and culture await you in Dubai?
Before you leave for Dubai, it's worth familiarising yourself with the local customs and culture to avoid any potential faux pas. Respect for traditions and customs is extremely important in Dubai. On the city’s streets, you may notice locals wearing traditional clothing such as the dishdasha (for men) and abaya (for women). Alcohol is only available in hotels and a few other specially licensed and it is illegal to consume it on the streets. It is also important to respect religious sites. However, tourists should not be afraid as the local Emiratis are friendly and willing to share their culture and traditions with visitors. With proper respect for the local culture, a trip to Dubai will be an unforgettable experience.
How many airports are there in Dubai?
Dubai is home to two major international airports, Dubai Al Maktoum (DWC) and Dubai International Airport (DXB). They serve passengers arriving in the Emirates from all over the world.
Dubai Al Maktoum Airport, also known as Dubai World Central (DWC), is located in Jebel Ali, about 37 kilometres south-west of the city centre. It offers flights from United Kingdom to Dubai by low-cost airlines, which fly from London to Dubai.The airport has been continuously expanded in recent years and is set to become the world’s largest, capable of handling up to 160 million travellers per year and the vast majority of connections via Dubai. The city centre can be reached from Al Maktoum by taxi or by city bus, which runs between the airport and the Ibn Battuta Mall metro station. The F55 bus takes travellers to the metro station in less than 40 minutes.
Dubai Airport (DXB), or Dubai International Airport, is currently the largest airport in the Emirates, handling international traffic and the world's largest aircraft. It is located in the Al Garhoud district, about five kilometres north of the city centre. Dubai International Airport receives flights from more than 100 airlines operating from 240 airports on six continents and serves nearly 90 million passengers a year. The city centre can be reached by metro (terminals 1 and 3), city buses and taxis.
