Dubai is undeniably one of the most exciting, fastest growing tourism destinations in the world (so innovative, in fact, that they have their own “world”). Indulgent and exotic, this city within the United Arab Emirates knows how to impress and spoil its visitors.
While Dubai’s business and historical districts flourish, the city seems built for relaxing and exploring. Indeed, many of the area’s projects are geared toward tourism, and the city has dedicated itself to creating high-end hotels, restaurants and entertainment for the most adventurous and refined travelers.
When most people hear the word “Dubai,” the Burj Al Arab resort immediately comes to mind. Though many do not know its name, its image is unforgettable. Known as the “Icon of Dubai,” the Burj Al Arab sits on a manmade island and soars 1,053 feet above the water. It really does soar; the structure, the tallest in the world used exclusively as a hotel, was built in the shape of a boat’s sail. The hotel is linked to the mainland by a single causeway, and if you’d rather not use the chauffer driven Rolls-Royces and BMWs, you are more than welcome to arrive and depart by helicopter. Try the Burj Al Arab’s Panoramic Suite for floor to ceiling views of the Arabian Gulf, and check out the Spa & Health Club for the true definition of pampering. If you brought young children, they’ll have a blast at Sinbad’s Kid’s Club and the Wild Wadi Water Park.
Once you’ve settled into one of Dubai’s trendy hotels, take a trip into the past at the Dubai Museum, located in the Al Fahidi Fort of 1787. Galleries and dioramas depict traditional Arab houses and mosques, as well as desert and marine life. Popular exhibits include pearl diving and artifacts from third millennium B.C. graves!
From “Souk to Shopping Mall,” Dubai is proud to call itself a true shopper’s paradise. The traditional souk marketplace is always an energetic area, full of unique items ranging from Indian silk and Sri Lankan spices to the latest in electronics. If you’re a confident bargain shopper, it is appropriate to negotiate prices as there is a huge profit to be made! For more traditional shoppers, countless plazas populate Dubai, boasting impressive architecture and themes. Some of the world’s best restaurants and designer boutiques are nearby, handpicked by the city to maintain 
Dubai’s reputation of luxury and elegance.
What would a trip to Dubai be without seeing The World? Just a few miles off the coast is a manmade archipelago of 300 islands, designed and built into the shape of the world – continents, major islands and all. The artificial islands were constructed using sand from the ocean floor. While you may not be in the market to purchase an entire island for $15 to $50 million, properties and houses are constantly up for sale. In 2008, The Universe Project was announced, which will be a cluster of islands in the shape of the solar system. The task will take about 15 to 20 years, so start planning your next few vacations now!
Dubai is a center of both old and new. With rich cultural sites, as well as innovative new developments, the city embraces its heritage, as well as cultures from around the world. Whether you’re an architect, archaeologist or serious shopper, Dubai promises never to disappoint and always to astonish.
For more information, visit http://www.dubaitourism.ae/.
