The Middle Eastern city of Dubai offers tourists a unique blend of an authentic Arab trading town and a modern, cosmopolitan metropolis. Located on the shores of the Persian Gulf and near to the desert, Dubai has plenty of luxury to spare, according to one travel writer.
Commenting on activities while on holiday in Dubai, travel writer Tom Hall of the Irish Independent said: “You’ll find plenty to keep you occupied in Dubai. The city is a fascinating mix of old and new, and both parts are worth exploring.”
Hall suggested first an exploration of Old Dubai, which preserves the ancient town centre of the city, which served for years as a small trade outpost before its rise to international prominence in the late 20th century.
However, before the spa hotels and luxury holidays in Dubai, it was a modest town, and visitors can explore the old souks, or public markets, and see centuries-old forts and mosques. Hall also recommended viewing the city from a dhow ride – a traditional Arab seafaring vessel – on Dubai Creek.
This, of course, stands in contrast with the modern wonders of Dubai, which have come to prominence recently through their demonstration of the feats attainable with modern engineering.
“The new face of the city couldn’t be more different,” Hall writes for the Independent. “Marvel at impressive buildings such as the Burj Al Arab and Atlantis Palm hotels, or visit Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping centre.”
The Burj Al Arab is the world’s tallest hotel building, shaped like a dhow, and the Palm Islands comprise Dubai’s most ambitious land-reclamation project, with archipelagos shaped like their tree namesake.
