Middle East: Dubai

DESTINATION DUBAI

Nestled on the banks of the Dubai Creek, a natural inlet from the Arabian Gulf, Dubai evokes feelings of romance and days gone by. The Dubai Creek is where the history of Dubai began and it still forms its lifeblood. Archaeological discoveries suggest that, as long as four thousand years ago, small fishing communities lived along the coast of the Arabian Gulf on the site of modern Dubai. It is also believed that the natural sheltered harbour afforded by the Dubai Creek was a busy port of call on the ancient trade route between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley.

For people who have been before, Dubai is a treasure trove. For first time visitors, it is an endless surprise. While Dubai today offers the ultimate in a beach holiday and is a shopper’s paradise with traditional Arabic souqs and luxurious shopping malls that offer the most sought after international brands, Dubai is much more.

Dubai has retained its romantic heritage as old and new lives side by side. As a city of contrasts, visitors can enjoy a multitude of experiences. There’s something very romantic about Dubai; you just need to know where to look!

A fascinating kaleidoscope of contrasts that distinctively blend the modernity of cosmopolitan lifestyle with the timelessness of the desert, Dubai is east and west, old and new. An exotic destination with a cosmopolitan lifestyle, Dubai combines the comfort and convenience of the western world with the unique charm and hospitality of Arabia.

Dubai’s hotels and resort facilities and service rank among some of the best in the world. First-class dining and cuisine awaits you in Dubai with tastes from the region and around the world.

The Arabian experience
At the heart of Dubai is the Arabian experience. These include camel-racing, horse-racing, desert safaris, dune and wide (dry river beds) driving in 4X4 vehicles, exploring the old souqs (traditional Arabian markets), moonlit Arabian desert barbecues, sand-skiing, dune bashing or enjoying a few days at a sublime desert retreat.

Shop ‘till you drop in Dubai
Dubai has earned its reputation as a shopper’s paradise. From 21st century shopping malls and traditional souqs to extravagant shopping and entertainment festivals, Dubai will tempt you to max out your credit cards. As the ‘brand capital’ of the world, Dubai truly offers something for every shopper and what’s more, the duty free prices mean visitors get to stretch their money while getting their hands on top, sought-after international brands.

Walk into any one of Dubai’s 49 world-class shopping malls and you’ll soon realise that window shopping is almost impossible. From chic designer wear to the latest electronic gadgets, the variety and price-tags are sure to make you reach into your wallet. The magnificent architecture and grand interiors adds to the unforgettable experience.

Spas and Wellness in Dubai
Dubai is also the place of sensational spas and entering one of the many exotic spas across the city, you will find time literally stands still as you enter a world of luxury, relaxation and total rejuvenation.

Traditional bathhouses or hammams have served Arabia for centuries. Some of the exotic treatments on offer include the widely known Hamman Maghrebi, a Middle Eastern tradition of the Moroccan Bath that has been favoured by women for centuries. Indulge in this lavish, traditional bathing experience, which will surely melt away all your stress. Do enjoy an age-old Moroccan Rassoul mud body wrap that will leave your skin feeling soft, smooth and supple.

The Beaches of Dubai
Dubai has some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, in particular the Jumeirah beach stretch that is dotted with exclusive beach resorts that offers exciting water-fun for the whole family in superbly luxurious settings.

Fun in Dubai
Dubai is a destination that offers something for the whole family. With its superb family entertainment activities located across the city, from the Wild Wadi Water Park to Ski Dubai (located in the Mall of the Emirates) and entertainment centres in most of the major shopping centres. The outdoor activities in Dubai will have adventurers yearning for more; from superb golfing greens to hot-air ballooning over the desert, quad-biking on the magnificent Arabian dunes and more.

So, make it Destination Dubai. With a direct flying time of under 8 hours, Dubai is the ideal Destination!

Information and pictures provided by dubaitourism.co.za

For more information on visiting Dubai for leisure or business, contact the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing in Johannesburg on telephone 011 785 4600 or email:

· Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) is responsible for the promotion of tourism and business development from Southern Africa to Dubai.
· Dubai is one of seven Emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates.
· Dubai attracts over 7 million tourists each year, with over 90 000 from South Africa. Ongoing development of tourism infrastructure will allow for a total 15 million arrivals by 2010.
· For more information, visit the DTCM website at www.dubaitourism.ae


The Travel-Informed Team

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