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An introduction to Dubai’s past and present at the city’s top attractions
Thu, July 16, 2020
From world-renowned architectural wonders to culture and heritage sites, get an introduction to Dubai tgrougfhnew and traditional experiences and attractions.
From world-renowned architectural wonders to culture and heritage sites, get an introduction to Dubai tgrougfhnew and traditional experiences and attractions.
1
Burj Khalifa and Downtown
More than just the world's tallest building.
Start the trip with a guided tour of the fashionable Downtown district. You can give your delegates insights into the construction of some of the city’s iconic buildings such as one of the world’s largest shopping malls - the Dubai Mall, the charming retail and restaurant cluster Souk Al Bahar, and the iconic Dubai Opera. Of course, you cannot leave Dubai without visiting the tallest building in the world - the Burj Khalifa. Go up to the viewing deck on the 125th floor and enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the world.
2
Traditional souks
For visitors seeking special gifts to bring home, Dubai’s souks offer a sensory shopping experience with a kaleidoscope of colourful raw cotton and silk fabrics, traditional handicrafts including metal, ceramics and glasswork, aromatic spices and natural fragrances.
Many are located on the banks of the Dubai Creek, meaning you can combine the experience with a trip by ‘abra’, Dubai’s traditional water taxis.
The souks represent Dubai’s history as a trading point along the ancient Silk Road, with goods such as patterned fabrics imported from India, spices at the Dubai Spice Souk, and row-upon-row of precious metal traders at the Gold Souk.
3
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Explore Dubai's heritage, culture and architecture at Al Fahidi.
The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood sits on the banks of the Dubai Creek, close to the souks, and provides a captivating insight into traditional Arabian life. Buildings constructed in the traditional 19th century style in stone and wood house art galleries, museums and cultural exhibits.
A must-visit within the Al Fahidi Neighbourhood is the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Under the banner ‘Open Doors, Open Minds’, the Centre aims to break down cultural barriers and promote an understanding of Arabian culture amongst both expatriate residents and visitors. Tours include an Emirati breakfast or dinner on Emirati-style carpets and pillows, a walking tour around the Al Fahidi Neighbourhood and the chance to sit back and ask your questions to a knowledgeable local host.
4
Al Shindagha Museum
Glimpse into Dubai's rich history.
Al Shindagha Museum tells the universal tale of human innovation, resilience, and the desire for progress, which shaped the modern Dubai. Visitors can explore the heritage submerging them into true Emirati culture and its origins. The museum also highlights Dubai’s shared heritage with the region and the rest of the world.
5
Etihad Museum
Make new discoveries about the UAE's proud heritage.
Etihad Museum chronicles the era around the founding of the UAE and is signposted by a 123m flagpole bearing the UAE flag at the historic site where the seven Emirates declared their Union in 1971.
6
Night dhow dinner cruises
A unique cruise combining views of the Creek and Arabian cuisine.
A host of companies offer dinner cruises on a wooden ‘dhow’ at a range of prices. The dhow is the traditional vessel that sailed the ancient silk route and which still carries goods across the Indian Ocean today. The two-hour experience gives diners stunning night-time views of the city as the boat cruises lazily along the Dubai Creek.
7
Desert safaris
An excursion to the Arabian desert is a unique and special experience that offers respite from time spent in the confines of a conference venue.
A range of itineraries are available, from a short desert drive to an overnight Bedouin camping trip, with traditional Arabian food and entertainment under the stars. Other options include a camel trek, wildlife safari, a hot air balloon ride and a sunset drive. Explore some options with these tour operators including Arabian Desert Tours, Desert Adventures, and Desert Safari Dubai.
8
Desert Conservation Reserve
Experience the natural and cultural heritage of the desert.
The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) is the UAE’s first national park. Carefully planned rehabilitation over the years has resulted in a protected environment for the last of the desert wildernesses. With the rapid development of Dubai as a major business centre in the Gulf, the Dubai Government has long recognised the need to preserve its unique and beautiful desert habitat, and the many threatened flora and fauna species within. This unique reserve was created for the protection of those endangered species and for the conservation of the natural desert habitat and heritage.
9
City bus tours
For time-starved visitors, a Dubai bus tour is a convenient way to take in the sights and landmarks of the city, from the gold and spice souks and Jumeirah Mosque to key shopping areas. An audio guide which points out the landmarks is available in multiple languages. You can hop on and off buses at your leisure if you fancy exploring something further.
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