City guide
Dubai and Abu DHabi
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Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Standing between desert and sea, the United Arab Emirates is a country with two
distinct personalities. The glamorous and flamboyant side continues to grow at
an incredible pace, with towering skyscrapers, huge malls full of designer shops,
high-end restaurants and enormous man-made islands. There’s also the traditional
aspect, best seen in the old town, where narrow alleys wind between ancient
homesteads and the locals mingle in souks and markets. Below is our guide to the
United Arab Emirates. Let us know if you’re planning a trip and whether you’d like
your holiday laid-back or lively – or a bit of both – and our experts will put together
bespoke suggestions to show you the best of this energetic country.
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Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Explore
Renowned for breaking world records with its grand architectural feats, from
buildings that tower almost a kilometre into the sky to artificial archipelagos,
there’s plenty to marvel at in Dubai. Below is just a selection of our favourite
things to do in the city – call us for more recommendations.
Ski Dubai
Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road
With access to 22,500 square metres of snow, visitors to the Middle East’s first
indoor ski resort can utilise the skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing facilities
year-round. The five runs vary in difficulty and length (the longest is 400 metres)
and clothing and equipment is included in the price. Lessons are available on
request and we recommend the Avalanche Cafe for a traditional crepe.
Wild Wadi waterpark
Jumeirah Road
Suitable for families and those who like a thrill, this popular tourist attraction
situated in front of the Burj Al Arab is themed around an Arabian folklore character.
Visitors have access to 30 rides, including a wave pool, slides and an artificial
surfing machine. Open all year, three restaurants cater for those spending several
hours in the park. There is also ladies only night once a week.
Dubai Museum
Al Fahidi Fort
Housed in a fort that was built in the late 18th century and is considered to be
the oldest building in Dubai, this museum allows visitors to interactively explore
the history, culture and traditions of the Middle East with working models and
lifestyle displays. Explanations are provided in English on wall panels and this
attraction is accessible seven days a week.
Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Road
Open to Muslims and non-Muslims, this is one of the UAE’s largest and most
splendid mosques. Located by the sea, it’s a fine structure flanked by flower beds
with bold minarets soaring into the sky. Once you’ve contemplated its facade,
which is particularly glorious at night, you can take a tour courtesy of the Sheikh
Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.
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Burj Khalifa
1 Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard
Visiting the world’s tallest building is a must. Towering 830 metres into the sky, it
will be in your eye line no matter where you are in the city. There are many shops
and restaurants throughout the needle-like structure, and the ultimate thrill is on
the observation deck on the 124th floor.
The Palm Jumeirah
This artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree has become an icon of the city
since its completion in 2008. Adding 78 kilometres to the coastline, the fronds
of the tree are long residential streets, lined with mansions which have private
beach access. Many luxury hotels are dotted over the islands and offer excellent
shopping and exclusive restaurants.
Al Bastakiya
Along with Al Shindagha, this is one of the oldest residential districts in Dubai
and the narrow lanes are worth an afternoon of exploration. Keep an eye out
for the wind towers on top of every building which were once the only means of
keeping the homesteads cool. As well as mosques and shops, many of the coral
and limestone buildings contain galleries and cafés.
Desert excursions
Surrounded by skyscrapers, it is easy to forget that there’s a whole desert out
there to be explored. We regularly book members on early morning and evening
safaris into this unique landscape, which we highly recommend. Call us to arrange
extras such as barbecue dinners at sunset, belly dancers, camel riding, quad biking
or an overnight stay in a traditional Bedouin tent.
Best beaches
Jumeirah
This three-kilometre stretch of sand has become world-famous thanks to the two
buildings the sail-shaped Burj al Arab and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Suitable for
families, the calm, shallow water is monitored by a team of lifeguards and there
are barbecue facilities dotted around. Parking is close at hand and water sports
are available.
Al Mamzar Park
In addition to the manicured gardens, children’s play areas, swimming pools and
cafés, there are five beaches in this leisure complex. Each has a shower and
changing area as well as designated picnic spots and lifeguards on duty all day.
For extra indulgence, call lifestyle concierge to arrange a reservation for one of
the private cabanas that have their own facilities and offer welcome shade.
Jebel Ali
The lack of facilities makes this a much quieter option than other beaches in
Dubai, particularly the private stretches of coastline owned by the major hotels.
It’s easy to get a large expanse of sand to yourself and the crystal clear water
remains shallow for a few hundred metres, making it ideal for families. The Palm
Jebel Ali archipelago is visible across the water.
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Best golf courses
The Majlis course at the Emirates Golf Club
Emirates Hills 3
Hailed as ‘the desert miracle’, the first grass course in the region proved that golf
could be played even in the most unlikely of landscapes. Today the course has
become a classic, especially the par-five 18th which has a risk and reward tee
shot over the corner of a dog-leg and an approach to the green over a lake.
Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
Port Saeed
Established in 1993, this is one of the oldest courses in the city and still remains
one of the most challenging. Following a major redevelopment in 2005, the course
makes the most of its waterside location and features holes such as the 6th, a
par-four with an island tee set back in the creek.
The Montgomerie
Emirates Hills 3
This open, expansive championship course winds its way between landscaped
gardens and huge man-made lakes. Designed by Colin Montgomerie and the late
Desmond Muirhead, the course has some quirky holes, such as the 13th, which
has a green shaped like the UAE. The clubhouse has 21 guestrooms, a swimming
pool and an excellent restaurant.
Shop
Locals, tourists and ex-pats dress up for dinner and always look their best on
nights out. We have chosen a selection of our members’ current favourite stores,
from independent boutiques to major malls.
Fashion boutiques
Bambah
142 Jumeirah Beach Road
Surrounded by retro furniture with 1950s portraits and paintings hanging on
the walls, this wood-floored space is the place to pick up vintage clothes and
accessories. All items have been hand-picked by the store’s buyers and the
collection of colourful summer dresses is impressive.
Boom and Mellow
First floor, Mall of the Emirates
This was the first high-end accessories boutique to open in Dubai and there is yet
to be an independent store to rival its choice of handbags, jewellery and shoes.
The shop focuses on unearthing unknown designers and the collections aren’t
seen anywhere else in the Emirate.
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Bullets and Butterflies
Mercato mall, Jumeirah Beach Road
The dark wood floors and all-white walls and furnishings give this large store
a bright and relaxed feel and it is perfect for kitting yourself out with a party
outfit. The choice of stylish sunglasses and summer dresses also makes it ideal
for holiday essentials.
Jason Wu
Boutique 1, The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence
The American designer reached international fame when Michelle Obama wore his
dresses, including on the cover of Vogue, and his seasonal collections are always
at the cutting edge of fashion.
West LA
Sunset Mall, Jumeirah
Stocking underground labels from across the globe, including Bec& Bridge,
Stylestalker and House of Harlow, this store is one of the latest additions to
the city’s fashion scene. The friendly staff and simple layout make it a relaxing
shopping experience.
Department stores
Saks Fifth Avenue
Burjuman Centre, Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road
This is the second largest branch outside the US. On the first floor there are
cosmetics and fragrance, but level two is the place to go, with lines by Missoni,
Prada and Alexander McQueen. Prices do not differ from the American stores;
however, there are regular sales.
Galeries Lafayette
Dubai Mall
As you would expect from Dubai’s largest department store, it is crammed full of
high-end fashion. Spread over three floors, it stocks all of the latest trends as well
as having an excellent interior design department, which exhibits one-off pieces
of furniture.
Harvey Nichols
Mall of the Emirates
The pinnacle of luxury London retail is a long-term fixture in Dubai and a must for
any serious shopping trip. There are a huge number of lines by British designers
and an interiors section by Ralph Lauren.
Gold and Diamond Park
Sheikh Zayed Road
There are 90 jewellers in this complex, all of which deal in top brand watches and
jewellery. Cara is the most popular store and is renowned for fixing timepieces
and replacing precious stones in rings and necklaces. The shaded courtyard has
plenty of cafés and restaurants.
Shopping malls
Dubai Mall
The world’s biggest shopping centre deserves at least half a day of exploration.
Our favourite features include KidZania, a small theme park where children learn
about the adult world by using replica money and role-playing professions, and
the globe’s largest singing fountain.
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Mall of the Emirates
Most famous for its indoor ski slope, this mall’s huge number of shops,
entertainment facilities and restaurants attracts more than 30 million visitors
each year and guides are on hand to point shoppers in the right direction. A large
Carrefour supermarket sells food and other domestic essentials.
Mercato
Jumeirah Beach Road
This small, Renaissance- and Venetian-themed mall in one of the most exclusive
areas of the city houses 90 stores from heavyweight designers, 16 restaurants
and a multiplex cinema. The giant glass ceiling gives this mall a refreshingly open
feel.
Abu Dhabi
Explore
Al Maqtaa Fort
This is a 200-year old fort that can be viewed whilst approaching the Al Maqtaa
Bridge towards Abu Dhabi Island. It had been used as a watch house against
invading bandits at the time. The fort has undergone several renovations with the
time and it is a valuable attraction representing Abu Dhabi’s history.
Dhow Cruising
Dhow cruising in Abu Dhabi is the most enhanced way of sightseeing the lovely
Gulf waters and numerous islands scattered around the city. These sailing vessels
of ancient design are originally traditional wooden sailing boats used by merchants
many centuries ago. But the modern Dhow with traditional design offers the
latest facilities such as satellite navigation and quality rest rooms. Dhow cruising
is popular among the tourists for its comfortable and pleasant atmosphere.
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Heritage Village
Located at the Breakwater in the middle of Abu Dhabi, Heritage village is designed
as a living museum offering a glimpse into the country’s past. It exhibits Bedouin
tradition and lifestyle detailing a variety of local traditions, as well as those of
other cultures employed in agriculture, fishing and trading. The site features tents,
courtyard houses, an ancient irrigation system and workshops where craftsmen
ply their trades. Furthermore, there are souvenir shops where authentic pottery
and exotic spices are available.
Khalifa Park
This is the best place in Abu Dhabi for relaxation, fun and entertainment. Located
in Al Matar, behind the old airport of Abu Dhabi, this landmark is popular among
residents, as well as tourists. The park has a lot to offer for all types of visitors. It
has a beautifully landscaped grand avenue, a central plaza for meeting, a maritime
museum, a time tunnel ride, a monorail, an Amphitheatre, a party hall, a women &
children’s garden, a theme park, a mosque and an Islamic garden also. Tours can
be carried out via train or by foot, whichever is more convenient.
Yas Waterworld
UAE’s First Mega Waterpark – unforgettable water adventure for all! YasWaterworld
offers 43 rides, slides and attractions, five one-of-a-kind rides that have never
been seen before in a Waterpark, a unique pearl diving experience that showcases
traditional Emirati pearl diving culture, and an Interactive Treasure Hunt game
that will awaken the hero in you.
Khalifa Park Museum
This museum provides information about the history and culture of Abu Dhabi.
This history traces back to prehistoric times to the present time of Abu Dhabi. The
Time Tunnel ride is the highlight of this museum; the monorail offers a journey of
a living history with all the sights, sounds and smells of the past.
Old Airport Garden
Located at the edge of Abu Dhabi Island, at the breakwater end, this serene spot is
ideal for anyone who needs time out to relax by the sea and take in the wonderful
views. It offers a play area for children and its landscape is particularly pleasing to
the eye. In addition to this, it features the largest flagpole in the world.
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Sheikh Zayed Mosque
This architectural mosque is named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan
who was the founder and the first President of the United Arab Emirates. He is
also buried there. The mosque acquires large area between Mussafah Bridge and
Maqta Bridge.
The Corniche
The picturesque area of the city is well known for its fountains, park-lined coastal
boulevard that skirts the city and architecturally modern buildings that face the
sea. Watch flower-filled gardens and modern high-rises on foot from east to west
or enjoy a ride on a traditional wooden dhow and experience the changing views
of the scenic skyline, parks and fountains. The Corniche Park located on the east
side of Abu Dhabi Island is perfect for fishing and bird watching.
The Emirates Palace Hotel
This wonderful seven star hotel is one of the Abu Dhabi’s most popular landmarks
and the venue for many of the city’s cultural activities. The hotel is equipped
with a huge conference centre and large landscaped gardens, palm trees and
fountains. The hotel also welcomes any non-residents to come and enjoy the
hotels surroundings.
Qasr al-Hosn
Also known as the white or old fort, this palace is the oldest historic building of
Abu Dhabi which dates back to 1793. It is located on Sheik Zayed First Street,
in the centre of Abu Dhabi. This fort remained the royal palace and the seat of
government until 1966. The fort itself is not open to the public but great pictures
can be taken from the grounds surrounding it. The area also accommodates the
popular Cultural Foundation centre which hosts a number of art, music and film
events each year.
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Al Ain National Museum
The best place to explore the mixture of ancestry, heritage and culture of the
people in Abu Dhabi. The museum is divided into two sections namely archaeology
and ethnography. Also, there is third section in the museum where special gift
artefacts are on sale.
The archaeological section exhibits artefacts such as blades, borers, burins, stone
lids, shells and pottery items, ranging from the Stone Age to the Islamic period
that dates back to thousands of years. The ethnography section showcases relics
from the past that establish the peculiarity of the local culture. The artefacts
include a collection of female jewellery, agricultural techniques or tools, and craft
items etc. Sultan Fort (Eastern Fort) situated opposite the Al Ain National Museum
completes a visitor’s tour of the museum.
Hili Archeological gardens
Located 10km from Al Ain on the Dubai road. The area includes both an
archeological site and a public garden. There are artefacts gathered from a Bronze
Age settlement. A number of pieces excavated and restored are featured in the Al
Ain Museum which is a good representation of the heritage and culture.
Al Ain Zoo & Aquarium
This is one of the most popular zoos located in the UAE and is renowned for its
great preservation of exotic wildlife. Here you are likely to spot species such as
the Arabian Oryx and gazelles, the local wildlife. A good way of exploring the zoo
is to take the train tour where you can witness amazing sights of the largest zoo
in the Gulf region.
Bespoke experiences
Private dolphin encounter
Dubai
Private dolphins encounter at the Atlantis Dubai. Interact on a one to one with
this intelligent and friendly mammal in a private pool.
Private helicopter
Dubai
Private helicopter tour is an unforgettable experience of seeing Dubai from a
bird’s eye view from the internationally renowned BurjKhalifa and world famous
Burj Al Arab to the spectacular The World and The Palm Jumeirah our aerial tours
ensure a unique unobstructed view of Dubai.
Private desert dinner
Dubai
Private Candle lit dinner in a secluded part of the desert, your personal tent lit
by flaming torches in a traditional Arabic setting. Feast under the stars with a
selection of Middle Eastern cuisine.
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