Dubai is an incredible fusion of historic architecture and tradition with ambitious futuristic structures and way of life. This city is peacefully shared by cultures from all around the world, and this diversity expresses itself in the fashion, cuisine, music and customs that shape Dubai. This incredible, innovative city is unlike any other, and the endless activities and experiences offered here make Dubai perfect for your next holiday.
Cuisine
Dubai has some of the best restaurants in the United Arab Emirates. Dining out is a major pastime of locals and visitors alike, and the restaurant scene is varied and exciting. Ultimately, if you enjoy food and an exquisite dining experience, then you will love this city. Here are some of the best restaurants in Dubai.
Shabestan
Shabestan is Dubai’s top Persian restaurant. Dine out on some of the most superb Middle Eastern foods in the city at this eatery. The traditional Persian dishes on the menu offer a timeless, traditional taste that takes influences from all around the Middle East. With only premium ingredients used in their dishes, Shabestan provides diners with one of the most amazing culinary experiences, especially with the addition of live traditional Persian music.
Cost: Immerse yourself in the Middle East with a meal from Shabestan for around A$50.
Rhodes W1
Rhodes W1 is one of the most famous restaurants in all of Dubai. Celebrity chef Gary Rhodes is world-renown for bringing British food into the 21st century and creating some of the best cuisines out of traditional British dishes. At this restaurant, the emphasis is largely on quality ingredients prepared in fresh and surprising ways – which is an accurate depiction of Dubai, a place that focuses on tradition and authenticity while being one of the most inventive cities in the world. Reservations are recommended for this hotspot.
Cost: At a reserved table, enjoy a famous chef Rhodes meal for an average of A$80.
Emporio Armani Café
This Armani empire-owned café offers the best example of Dubai’s mall food revolution and is fittingly surrounded by designer stores. Located in the Mall of Emirates, the Emporio Armani Café epitomises Dubai as a city that embraces culture and customs but celebrates innovation and creativity as well. The coffee is superb, and the food is stylishly presented.
Cost: Enjoy your designer meal for anywhere between A$20 to A$60.
Asha’s
Asha’s is a prime example of the diverse range of food options found in Dubai. Named after the legendary Bollywood singer Asha Bhosle, the mood lighting and traditional Indian décor are ideal for feasting on the contemporary Indian cuisine. The extensive menu and beautiful scenery make eating at Asha’s a true dining experience. Eat inside or on the open-air terrace overlooking the Wafi City courtyard to compliment your chicken curry with a panoramic view.
Cost: Lunch and dinner are served at Asha’s and can range from A$20 to A$85.
Nightlife
Dubai is home to some of the most glamorous nightclubs in the world. This Middle Eastern metropolis has everything from beachside clubs where you can dance by the sea to sophisticated rooftop bars with skyscape views. Find your ultimate evening out with these top nightlife destinations in Dubai
360°
360° has repeatedly been named the best nightclub in the area, and it is no surprise why. With mood lighting, an always posh crowd, and incredible views of the Burj Al Arab, this venue promises a time you will never forget. Located at the end of Jumeirah Beach Hotel’s Marina walkway, enjoy the Pan-Asian cuisine with panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline, as well as a comfortable lounge experience accompanied by the area’s top DJ’s.
MusicHall
MusicHall is a mix of a theatre venue and a club. This nightclub represents a new and unique concept by holding short live musical acts and talents from around the world using the best sound and light technologies. Experience variety performances while enjoying a taste of something delicious from the gourmet menu. With a somewhat mythical vibe, MusicHall hosts many international artists and offers an incomparable musical experience.
Blue Marlin
Blue Marlin is a stylish beach club that provides you the best comfort, service and entertainment. The extraordinary cuisine offered at this venue is topped only by the scenic views overlooking the terrace onto the beach. When night falls after a delicious dinner, enjoy yourself at the outdoor club, dancing under the stars to the latest music. One of the greatest places to spend your night, Blue Marlin provides its guests with incredible atmosphere, food and entertainment.
Shopping
Aside from the food and the nightlife, Dubai is undoubtedly a centre of commerce. Often called the "shopping capital of the Middle East", this city has just about perfected the art of the mall, which is the place to go with family and friends. While the insides of these malls have ice rinks, aquariums and of course numerous stores, their exteriors look like ancient Persian structures surrounded by desert. While the customs are assuredly sustained at Dubai shopping malls, the souks of Dubai are an enticing reminder that you are in a foreign country. Travel through these outdoor markets for a shopping experience to which even the malls cannot compare.
Dubai Mall
With around 1200 stores, this is not simply the world’s largest shopping mall, but rather a small city in its own right. With a giant ice rink, aquarium, massive dinosaur skeleton on display, indoor theme park and over 150 food outlets, there is something at the Dubai Mall for everyone. Forget spending just one day here. You could pass away your entire holiday at the Dubai Mall.
Gold Souk
All that glitters is gold at the Gold Souk. Located in Deira, this is Dubai’s best known and most popular souk. It consists of covered walkways lined with hundreds of jewellery shops that sell pieces made with gold, silver and precious stones. This colourful market is ideal even if you are not shopping for fancy jewels; a stroll through the enormous Gold souk is a must for the most immersive cultural experience in Dubai.
Souk Al Bahar
The Souk Al Bahar is downtown Dubai’s massive outdoor shopping centre. The main attraction is the waterfront with restaurants that boast magnificent views of the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa. This modern Arabian souk offers plenty of stores selling handicrafts, carpets, antiques, and souvenirs.
Museums & landmarks
Dubai Museum
The Dubai Museum is your ticket to learn about the city’s history and rise from ancient village to global centre of commerce, finance and tourism. Located in the Al Fahidi Fort, the museum was built in 1799 and is the oldest surviving structure in town. This museum details Dubai’s development through exhibits and interactive displays.
Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building and reaches 828m. This ground-breaking achievement of architecture and engineering has two observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors, and even a restaurant on the 122nd. Seeing the view is a favourite experience, so book your tickets to get a birds’ eye of view of Dubai and further into the United Arab Emirates.
Burj Al Arab
The Burj Al Arab is considered one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Dubai. Completed in 1999 in the shape of a sail, this hotel is located on an artificial island and thought of as the symbol of modern Dubai. It is worth visiting just to stare at the graceful silhouette of the exterior and the luxurious inside. If you can, try to make a reservation at the Skyview Bar for a drink with the most fabulous panoramic views you will ever experience.
Beaches
Dubai’s beaches are buzzing, all-action hotspots, crowded with people enjoying the sun, playing games, enjoying adventure sports and swimming in the warm Gulf waters. There are both private and public beaches, and these stretches of sand are family-friendly.
JBR Beach
This is Dubai’s most popular beach, and it simply cannot be beaten for its proximity to The Walk, which features plenty of juice bars, burger joints and gelato counters. A day at JBR beach is considered a weekend staple for many Dubai residents, so fit in with the locals and grab a stretch of sand and relax at this free beach.
Umm Suqeim Park Beach
Umm Suqeim Park Beach, also referred to as Sunset beach, is a destination for seasoned surfers and windsurfers who can be spotted in the early mornings. This is the ideal spot if you are in search of the ultimate photograph of the Burj Al Arab as the iconic landmark is not far and stands majestically with the sun reflecting off the glass exterior.
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Image courtesy of Flickr user Brandon cropped from original