Dubai Landmarks:
Dubai Creek - Water birds, traditional Arab Dhows, abras (water taxis) and sleek yachts, all come together on the blue waters of Dubai creek. Traditionally the place where the pearl divers and fishermen of Dubai met with merchants and Bedouin traders who journey to the coast from the desert, Dubai creek continues to be an essential part of this busy trading city.
Dubai Museum - Housed in the Al Fahidi Fort in the heart of the city, this elegant museum showcases the history of Dubai from its days as a village of pearl divers and fishermen to the international leisure and convention destination it has become today, through colourful dioramas. Multimedia exhibits cover the wildlife of Dubai - including the rare Houbara Bustard and models of traditional souqs and boat building, add to the historical experience. Don't miss the museum gift shop, which is packed with souvenirs of traditional Arab crafts.
Shaikh Saeed Al-Maktoum House: Built in 1896, this was the residence of Shaikh Saeed Al-Maktoum, who ruled Dubai from 1912-1958. He was the grandfather of the present head of government, Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The building has been restored and functions as a museum with a collection of documents, photographs, coins and stamps reflecting Dubai's history.
Deira Covered Souq: Step into the Deira Covered Souq has a distinctly Indian flavour with clothes, textiles, household and consumer goods, henna and spices offered for sale.
Electronic Souq: Al Fahidi Street in Bur Dubai is known for its Electronic stores that form the Electronic Souq. You can get electronic goods from around the world here at reasonable prices.
Gold Souq - is a sight that has to be seen to be believed. Dubai is known for the reasonable prices, quality and workmanship of the gold sold in its markets. Gold jewellery is exhibited in windows of stores all along the busy streets that make up the Gold Souq. The strings of lights that decorate the building at night invite visitors to buy the necklaces that are sold in the stores below. Your journey to Dubai is incomplete without a visit to the gold souk.
Perfume Souq: Located near the Gold Souq, this fragrant souq offers traditional Arab perfumes, and oils and essences of flowers and herbs, along with the latest European designer fragrances.
Spice Souq: Also known as the Deira Old Souq, near Dubai Creek, this Souq is known for its fragrant Arab spices used in the local cuisine. You can also get various household goods at this souq.
Burj al Arab Hotel: Shaped like the billowing sail of an Arab Dhow, this seven-star hotel, which stands on its own island off the Jumeirah beach coast, has become a modern landmark of Dubai. With a helicopter deck, 202 luxurious suites and an underwater seafood restaurant, this hotel is full of exotic surprises.
Sharjah: Located to the North of Dubai is another of the Emirates. Tghe journey from Sharjah to Dubai is only 13 kms and the two emirates are closely linked.
Fujairah: Fujairah is separated from the other emirates by the Hajar Mountains. Fujairah is an important container and livestock port. It is also known for the watersports and adventure tourism offered by this emirate.
Ras Al Khaimah: This emirate consists of two irregularly shaped areas of land on the Oman Promontory, with its capital at Ras Al Kahimah town. Its 35 km long coastline makes it a popular spot for a holiday journey.
Shopping in Dubai
Lamcy Plaza - This compact shopping centre is a great place to spend some time, while exploring its stores. Built on an open plan, the stores are not separated by walls, from each other, so can walk from one store to another browsing for goods. The robotic clown that climbs and descends a pole in the central lobby of this plaza, is a popular attraction for children.
Holiday Center - Diera City Center - this mega mall has something to offer every tourist. You'll find everything from the home décor store Ikea to designer clothing and retail stores such as Woolworths and Debenhams. From restaurants to fine jewellery, this airy shopping centre is a great place to spend a day on a shopping journey, indulging in the best that Dubai has to offer.
Diera Souqs - The souqs in Deira offer carpets, textiles and a range of consumer goods.
Eating out:
Dubai offers a cosmopolitan range of eateries. Arab and Lebanese food, is available across the city. Hotels and restaurants offer every kind of international cuisine including Chinese, Thai, Mexican and Polynesian. There are many Indian restaurants in Dubai, including one run by the well-known Indian chef Sanjeev Kapoor.
