Dubai

One of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is the most modern constituent of the emirate. It is also the most populous one. It is located on the Persian Gulf on the Arabian Peninsula. Although it is a desert city, it has come to be one of the hottest party destinations in the world. Its geographical location only helps the fact, as Dubai is only five hours away from Europe, three hours from the Middle East as well as the Indian subcontinent.

Since the city is near a desert, September to May is a good time to visit the city as the weather during this time is cooler. While most of the people think of Dubai as an entertainment spot, the city has its own share of history. You can explore Dubai’s first school, Al Ahmediya School, built in 1912. Now restored, the school has old reeds used as pens and student diplomas as its exhibits. To get a picture of the old Dubai, you can visit the Dubai museum. The tour of the museum starts at the al-Fahidi Fort, and takes the visitors through the history of Dubai, which tells the rags-to-riches story of the city. You may also visit the famous Jumeriah Mosque of Dubai. It is considered to be one of the most attractive mosques in this part of the world.

While in Dubai, you must visit the Burj Dubai, the tallest structure in the world. Standing tall at a height of 600 meters, the building continues to grow. It is said that the building’s height will exceed 800 meters before it is completed in the year 2009. Dubai is also known for its artificial structures. Palm Islands, world’s largest artificial islands, are considered to be the oasis of the desert. Yet another artificial structure and a place worth visiting is Dubai’s Skiing Centre. Complete with snow and a temperature of -4 degrees Celsius inside, visitors can, quite literally, enjoy the chills and thrills of skiing right here in this desert city. If you want to enjoy the surf and sand of Dubai, head to the beach. One of the sandiest beaches in the world, you can enjoy a host of water sports here. But if that’s not enough for you, try taking a Desert Safari. Enjoy a roller coaster ride of the sand dunes of Dubai in an SUV. If after al the activity, you are looking for a bit of relaxation, book yourself on the Dubai Creek Cruise. Enjoy a romantic dinner while sailing on the waters of the Dubai creek.

Make most of the quiet dinner as your next activity is going to be extremely hectic – shopping! Dubai is a veritable dream for shopaholics. Visit the historical Gold Souk and pick up exquisite pieces of 22 carat gold jewelry. Also, do not forget to pay a visit to the Spice Souk. Nearly as old as the city, you can pick up all kinds of spices from this market at a bargain.