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Guide To Dubai

The largest of the seven emirates that make up the UAE, Dubai is notable for its superb infrastructure (especially superb considering it is essentially in the middle of a desert!). Impressive high-rises set the tone for the place – loud, rich and eager to impress. Dubai’s great location (five hours from Europe and three from the Middle East) always ensures an intriguing clash of cultures too.

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When To Go

Dubai is most comfortable when it’s at its coolest (between November and April). The rest of the year offers great sunshine, but at scorching temperatures – fine if you want to hop from pool to shade and back again, but not so good if you want to be more active. Also, the whole of the UAE fasts during Ramadan. This extends as far as tourism too - it is illegal for anybody (Muslim or not) to be seen eating in public. If you are prepared to cook your own food in private, then many resorts offer huge discounts at this time.

Top 5 Places To Stay

  • Metropolitan Palace Dubai

    Located on the prestigious Al Maktoum Street, Palace guestrooms have modern European, Arabic and Oriental decor, and come with bathtubs and walk-in shower rooms. Guests can relax in the rooftop pool and spa tub, or use the health club.

  • Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa

    An Arabic themed, ten-storey hotel opposite the historic Dubai Museum and 300m from Dubai Creek. Air-conditioned rooms have wooden floors, and guests can choose from one of five restaurants or relax on the terrace around the outdoor pool.

  • The St George Hotel

    This hotel features 142 guestrooms located on nine floors, all with modern decor, air-conditioning, internet access, satellite television, direct-dial phones, minibars and desks. A 24-hour café, located in the lobby, is available for drinks and snacks, and complimentary parking is also offered.

  • Rihab Rotana Suites

    A short distance from the Clock Tower in central Dubai, this hotel offers a rooftop swimming pool, poolside bar and fitness area. The 134 suites have light decor, modern furnishings, kitchenettes, climate control and satellite TV.

  • Orchid Hotel

    Three-kilometres from the airport and five from the Gold Souk, Orchid’s air-conditioned guestrooms have modern decor with oak furniture, satellite TV, phones and minibars. Guests can enjoy live entertainment in the three nightclubs, or relax by the poolside and in the sauna and steam room.

Top 5 Things To Do On Your Visit

  • Nad Al Sheba Racecourse

    Home to the world’s most famous horse race, the Dubai Cup, the racecourse can be a great day out (especially in good weather). General admission during race season (November to April) is free too.

  • Wild Wadi water park

    Themed around the Arabic legend of Sinbad the Sailor, Wild Wadi has over 20 rides to choose from. These include the ‘Jumeirah Sceirah’ which throws you around at speeds of up to 80km per hour!

  • BurJuman Centre

    A huge shopping centre complete with cinemas, arcades and restaurants, the BurJuman Centre is big enough to keep you occupied for hours. Especially if you like designer brands.

  • Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club

    If you’re in a fairly large group (of around five or so), you can rent a 10m fishing boat for the day. Included in the price is a skipper and lunch (for you and the fish).

  • Dubai Museum

    This Aladdin’s Cove of a museum is housed in Dubai’s oldest building. Befitting city’s barren location, the museum has a number of strange – and interesting – artefacts on offer, including skeletons and desert wildlife.

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