Travel Guides > Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai Travel

If you were to mention Dubai in a casual conversation, many may be hard-pressed to locate it on a map. However, this "federation", one of seven that make up the United Arab Emirates, is quickly becoming a popular destination for many who've made it their goal to see the world.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is located on the Persian Gulf, north of Saudi Arabia and west of Oman. Because the UAE is an oil-rich country, it plays a large role in the affairs of the countries of the Middle East.

Dubai is the most modern and bustling destination in the UAE and home to many world financial institutions and other businesses, including global industry giants like Heinz, Aiwa, General Motors, and Daewoo, as well as world-class hotels that welcome visitors to come and explore this Middle East playground.

Throughout the last decade, experts in the travel industry have voted Dubai the best tourist destination in the Middle East and the federation has worked hard to maintain its reputation and continue to attract international tourists.

In such a wealthy country, you may expect that the shopping would be stupendous. You'd be right and the one shopping destination that will be a must-see above all others is the Dubai Mall. This mall, currently under construction and destined to be the largest on the planet, will offer much more than just stores in which to shop, though the stores are certainly far from your usual Sears or J.C. Penney. Inside this vast shopping center, you'll find an Olympic ice staking rink, one of the world's largest aquariums, cascading waterfalls, and an array of "souks" (shops) that will knock your socks off.

But if it's cultural Dubai you're hoping to see, there are a few other stops that should be a part of your itinerary. Visit the Dubai Museum, located in the Al Fahaidi Fort, for a look at the history of Dubai and of the UAE in general. If you'd like to experience old Dubai, head for the Heritage and Diving Village where you can unearth ancient artifacts and purchase some genuine Arabian handicrafts.

When you're ready to get out of the city for a little while, sign up for one of Dubai's unique desert safaris. Head out to the sand dunes on a 4WD vehicle and participate in a bit of "dune bashing", a.k.a. driving up and down the sometimes steep dunes. Many of these tours include an Arabian barbecue buffet or even a camel ride as part of your tour.

Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy a few rounds of golf while in Dubai. The Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club is home to a first-class, world-renowned course that has hosted the PGA European Tour Desert Classic.

The beaches in Dubai are also world-class. Check out Jumeirah Beach, excellent for families or those who are just looking to spend some leisure time in the sun. A trip to Wild Wadi Waterpark is also a treat for thrill-seekers hoping to cool off!

Of course, your trip wouldn't be complete without a stop at what's been touted as the "Best Hotel in the World", the Burj Al Arab. This all-suite waterfront hotel resembles a grand sailing vessel and literally offers guests the best of everything, from five-star cuisine to a spa that's unmatched anywhere.