Introduction to Dubai

Dubai is a desert gem, where seven-star luxury and glitzy skyscrapers overlook sandy beaches, and traditional wooden boats unload their spices on Dhow Wharfrage. It's also a city of superlatives, whose entrepreneurial spirit demands that everything built is the biggest and the best. Indulge in extreme activities: snowboard at Ski Dubai or go dune bashing in a 4x4. Despite the plethora of international cuisines and top cocktail bars, at its heart is a traditional society best experienced at the white stone Jumeirah Mosque.

Things to Do

Ascend 2,716 feet to Burj Khalifa's observation deck, the world's tallest building, with skyscraper-studded views from its open-air terrace. Everything else dwarfs by comparison, including the narrow alleyways of the heritage village Bastakiya with art cafes and traditional wind-tower houses, and Dubai Museum's Bedouin displays. Cruise Dubai Creek on a traditional abra (water taxi) between Bur Dubai and Deira to feel the evening breeze in your hair.

Shopping

Whether haggling in souks or cooling down in air-conditioned malls, shopping is an essential pastime. When you've had your fill of top designer gear and computer gadgets at the Dubai Mall, the world's largest, change your pace at the ice skating rink. If you prefer more traditional shopping experiences that involve bargaining for local goods, meander the alleyways and inhale the heady scents at the Spice Souk, and gaze at glittering displays at Gold Souk in Deira.

Nightlife and Entertainment

For unique Dubai entertainment, cheer on the miniature robot jockeys at camel races where these ships of the desert go through their paces. You'll always find cocktails and top wines at Jumeirah Beach's hotel bars. However for a more authentic, local experience, puff away on a shisha pipe with a strong Arabic coffee, enjoyed while overlooking Dubai Creek or, even better, on an overnight desert safari.

Restaurants and Dining

Dubai is a city of culinary extremes, where you can taste world cuisines in luxury hotels, or pan-Asian street food in informal restaurants. Splash out on a multi-course Lebanese banquet with slinky cabaret show in Jumeirah Beach luxury hotels, or join locals filling up on a hearty lamb shawarma in Deira's backstreets. At the sail-shaped seafront Burj al Arab hotel you can dine in Arabian luxury next to the subterranean aquarium or sip afternoon tea at the 1,053 foot-high Skyview Bar.