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Dubai see + do
Prosperity came to this previously sleepy city state relatively recently. Before the oil boom in the 1970s, it had an exclusively sea-based economy concentrated on pearl diving and trade routes, so if you are looking for classical art, ancient artifacts, and historical sites or monuments, you'll be disappointed. The government is trying to fast-forward the creation of a modern urban culture with roots in local traditions. It is restoring culturally significant buildings and areas such as the souks and Bastikiya, and encouraging operators to embrace Arab culture for experiences and theme parks, all while pouring money into supporting contemporary art and building the infrastructure—a metro, a massive new shipping port, and an airport—required for a 21st-century economy.
The world's tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa (formerly known as the Burj Dubai) officially opened at the beginning of 2010. At 2,625 feet high, the building...more
Desert safaris are cheesy and contrived but still great fun. Even the most jaded locals grudgingly admit that a dune-bashing safari is not to be missed. A 4WD...more
Cruise down the Creek (the name throws many visitors, but as it's a huge, natural inlet it is technically a creek) at a leisurely pace on a large, traditional...more
In the desert on the road to the neighboring emirate of Al Ain, the Al Lusali Camel Racing Club track and Dubai Camel Market offer a glimpse into the cultish...more
Some of the city's most prominent curators have taken over a repurposed luxury shopping mall at the foot of the Dubai International Financial Center. Have lunch...more
In contrast to most of Dubai's shiny new attractions, this small but informative museum near the Creek, a short walk from Bastakiya and the old Textile Souk, is...more
The majestic Jumeirah Mosque showcases Islamic heritage and promotes cultural understanding; this is the only mosque non-Muslims are allowed to enter in the UAE...more
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