Dubai

Just the name Dubai conjures magical images of exotic indulgence and high end luxury; you can guarantee that a holiday in Dubai will be an experience you’ll never forget.

Shimmering in the heat of the Arabian desert, Dubai glitters with iconic high rise buildings and skyscrapers – including the world’s tallest building the Burj Khalifa.

The earliest recorded mention of Dubai is in 1095 in the Book of Geography by the Andalusian-Arab geographer Abu Abdullah al-Bakri, but modern Dubai is thought to have been established as a fishing village in the early 18th century. Its strategic trade position has always brought people to the area, but after oil was discovered nearby in the 1960s the size and wealth of the city grew exponentially. Nowadays Dubai is more reliant on tourism and its position as a global business and transport hub.

Shopping is a major pastime in Dubai. You can give your credit card a workout at the Dubai Mall, browse the treasures on offer in the Gold Souk and discover the fragrant Spice Souk. At Dubai’s resorts and hotels there’s the full range of watersports to enjoy, and a range of spas to pamper you from head to toe. The city also boasts some fantastic dining experiences from chefs such as Nobu Matsuhisa at Atlantic, The Palm to Marco Pierre White and Giorgio Locatelli. And for an insight into local cultural, don’t miss a visit to Jumeirah Mosque, which operates regular tours and Q&A sessions for non-Muslims.

With multiple daily flights to Dubai from all the main UK gateways, it couldn’t be easier to experience the splendour of the city for yourself. Getting around once you’ve arrived is easy too, thanks to the Dubai Metro (officially the longest fully automated metro network in the world) which runs from the airport all the way to the other side of the city. The major attractions of Dubai, including the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Marina – are all accessible via the Metro. Others, such as Jumeirah Beach Residence and Palm Jumeirah can be accessed on the new tram system which opened at the end of 2014.

Please be reminded that the majority of local people in Dubai are Muslim and Ramadan is the month of fasting when Muslims abstain from all food, drinks and smoking from dawn to dusk. As a sign of respect, visitors are also requested to refrain from consuming these items in public places during the daylight hours of this month

DINING, BARS AND NIGHTLIFE

As a luxurious destination which attracts the world’s wealthiest people, as well as anyone seeking a 5* experience, Dubai boasts world class restaurants and many celebrity chefs have establishments in the city. Alcohol is generally only served in establishments that have licences such as hotel restaurants and bars, so save your partying for your villa, hotel or resort.