Exploding with the beauty of natural wonder and intrigue, you will find the city of Dubai situated within the United Arab Emirates. It is here that the land stretches to reveal endless deserts, beaches, and other grand explorations in art, culture, and history. With regal hotels and delicious cuisine, the city swells with a wide range of attractions and activities that keep the locals and tourists alike busy and quite pleased with their surroundings. Dubai is home to a variety of interesting neighborhoods, satisfying commercial finds, and exciting districts to explore, including Old Dubai, Bur Dubai, and the old Bastakiya district
Major Attractions
Whether you are a shopper at heart or enjoy the sights and sounds of the great outdoors, a wealth of major sights throughout the city are offered. While Lancy Plaza and Mercate Mall are decent locations to run up the credit card bill, the third largest mall in the world (Mall of Emirates) can be found in Dubai. This delightful locations busts at the seams with theaters, arcades, an impressive food court, and the largest indoor ski slope across the globe. Additional attractions bringing in the tourists include the indoor and outdoor exhibits at the Dubai Zoo; and the relaxing atmosphere of Jumeirah Beach.
Nightlife
To experience some of the best nightlife in Dubai, many consider the larger hotels in the city as the "place to be." Some of the best bars are situated within these town gems, where the entire city opens to a variety of entertaining, exciting, as well as less expensive hot spots. In Dubai, the concept of "Happy Hours" is a popular approach towards enjoying the nightlife, as is "Ladies Night," which seems to dominate Tuesday and Sunday nights. Usually, the busiest nights to party are experienced on Thursdays and Saturdays in Dubai.
Weather
As you begin to plan a trip to Dubai, you may want to check the Weather Channel to better prepare for the overall climate and upcoming temperatures. In Dubai, the average highs and lows are quite pleasant for the area. Summers bring hot and humid weather, while cooler days prevail from September to May. As for the rain, it tends to shuffle in during the months of January and February.
Learn about Dubai Travel and Dubai Tourist Attractions.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gabriel_J._Adams
Feel free to search travel information here. AIR, HOTEL, & CAR!!!
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Pink taxi anyone? Dubai lifts restrictions
A quick and simple post, yet informative indeed.
You may not have been aware of it, but Dubai's govermental agency in charge of public transport, The Roads and Transport Authority made an announcement that has many families jumping up with joy. Also, it will prove to be a blessing to commuters as this new measure is expected to ease the rush hour traffic. Pink taxis, driven by female drivers used to be available only to children and women only. However, a new law passed early this year will allow a family to ride together in pink taxis. No longer will men have to ride different taxis than their families. A budget saver indeed! Quite a progressive measure that will benefit all tourists to the wonderful city of Dubai.
Enjoy your travels and continue visiting this page for more information and of course, as always, you're encouraged to check out the lowest price available for your next Dubai trip on the integrated search box on this page. For more hints on how to cut your travel costs, please visit my other blog at http://travel-cheaper-always.blogspot.com/
Also, a unique feature on another one of my travel related blogs is a search for your airport transportation. Have multiple local companies compete for your business and see the price comparisons for local companies on this page: http://sedanlimosineexpert.blogspot.com/
Feb 11, Families can now use pink taxis. These pink taxis operate 7 days a week from 6:00 am until 2:00 am and can be ordered by calling
+971 4 208 0808.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Why Dubai is a top travel destination
Contributed by: Wayne Armstrong
Are you looking for a great place to take your next vacation? Are you tired of the same old beaches year in and year out? If so, you may want to consider taking your next vacation to Dubai. Some people have never even heard of Dubai, but the fact of the matter is that it is growing very quickly as a top vacation destination. In addition, Dubai is also becoming very popular among real estate investors who are looking to diversify their portfolio of properties.
The reason that Dubai is becoming so popular among vacationers is that the area offers a lot to do. No matter what your pleasure, you should be able to find something in Dubai that suits your needs. This makes for a great vacation for a couple or a family.
A lot of people simply like to lounge on the beach when they go on vacation. If this sounds like you, Dubai can definitely meet all of your needs. The beaches in Dubai are among the most beautiful in the area, and perhaps in the entire world. All you need to do is plop your chair down on the white sandy beaches and relax the day away.
But if you are looking for a bit more action while vacationing in Dubai you will not be disappointed; especially if you are interested in water sports. Jumeria Beach is the most popular in Dubai, and you can take advantage of many water sport activities in this area. Everything from sailing to water skiing to paragliding is available. In addition, most of the hotels in the area can set these activities up for you so that you do not have to do a thing.
If you are going to be visiting Dubai with your family you will have plenty of activities to choose from that will keep them entertained for the duration of your trip. One of the most popular family destinations in Dubai is the Wild Wadi Water Amusement Park. At Wild Wadi you can take advantage of large swimming pools and water slides; perfect fun for the entire family. In addition, the Dubai zoo is also among one of the more popular family destinations. You can visit the zoo to become acquainted with some of the wildlife that lives in Dubai and the surrounding areas.
Dubai has a great variety of food offerings including American cuisine. This works out well for vacationers from all over the world.
Overall, a vacation in Dubai can be very exciting. Regardless of if you are going alone, with a partner, or with your entire family there will be plenty of activities to take part in. Plan your Dubai vacation if you are searching for something a bit out of the ordinary.
Are you looking for a great place to take your next vacation? Are you tired of the same old beaches year in and year out? If so, you may want to consider taking your next vacation to Dubai. Some people have never even heard of Dubai, but the fact of the matter is that it is growing very quickly as a top vacation destination. In addition, Dubai is also becoming very popular among real estate investors who are looking to diversify their portfolio of properties.
The reason that Dubai is becoming so popular among vacationers is that the area offers a lot to do. No matter what your pleasure, you should be able to find something in Dubai that suits your needs. This makes for a great vacation for a couple or a family.
A lot of people simply like to lounge on the beach when they go on vacation. If this sounds like you, Dubai can definitely meet all of your needs. The beaches in Dubai are among the most beautiful in the area, and perhaps in the entire world. All you need to do is plop your chair down on the white sandy beaches and relax the day away.
But if you are looking for a bit more action while vacationing in Dubai you will not be disappointed; especially if you are interested in water sports. Jumeria Beach is the most popular in Dubai, and you can take advantage of many water sport activities in this area. Everything from sailing to water skiing to paragliding is available. In addition, most of the hotels in the area can set these activities up for you so that you do not have to do a thing.
If you are going to be visiting Dubai with your family you will have plenty of activities to choose from that will keep them entertained for the duration of your trip. One of the most popular family destinations in Dubai is the Wild Wadi Water Amusement Park. At Wild Wadi you can take advantage of large swimming pools and water slides; perfect fun for the entire family. In addition, the Dubai zoo is also among one of the more popular family destinations. You can visit the zoo to become acquainted with some of the wildlife that lives in Dubai and the surrounding areas.
Dubai has a great variety of food offerings including American cuisine. This works out well for vacationers from all over the world.
Overall, a vacation in Dubai can be very exciting. Regardless of if you are going alone, with a partner, or with your entire family there will be plenty of activities to take part in. Plan your Dubai vacation if you are searching for something a bit out of the ordinary.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Traveling to Dubai, while saving money
So you want to go to Dubai but have heard how expensive it can be for both vacationers and business travelers alike? If that's what you've heard, then whoever told you hasn't experienced Dubai. Here are some money saving tips that can cut your Dubai budget in half.
Shopping in Dubai
If shopping is your pleasure, then Dubai is your dreams come true. Not only do you have some of the biggest malls in the world with all the major brands, but Dubai, being originally a trading hub between the east and west offers you one of the most fascinating shopping experiences on the globe. From traditional souks (where you can find jewelry and cloth, among many others things), to the Indian markets in Deira, finding everything from spices to electronics. Ask around in the back-alley stores and you can even find that satellite decoder that opens all the paid channels. Don't forget to haggle, they never turn away a customer, and you'll know when you've hit the lowest price.
Communication
Avoid high phone charges in the hotel room and get a pre-paid calling card which you can use from any phone booth and private lines to call international. If you are expecting to stay for a while, get a pre-paid GSM card (WASEL) for Dhs.165 ($45). Limit your outgoing calls and get free incoming calls for a year ( more info ). The WASEL GSM line must be purchased from an Etisalat office (don't forget to bring a passport copy), but pre-paid cards can be purchased from any convenient store, gas stations or tobacco store.
Food
For cheap eats, it's hard to beat the Indian restaurants serving the city's largest working population. Try the buttered chicken with buttered ‘nan' bread, and you'll have cravings for it for years to come. For a $3 meal, expect to eat with your hands, but you can always politely ask for a fork or spoon. The occasional foreigner is expected and well-cared for.
If you're on a tight budget, only eat at hotels when they have meal deals, otherwise, you'll be paying too much. Find Open Buffet specials starting at $10 per person, some Friday Brunch offers include use of the swimming pool for the day. You can find excellent Meal Deals here .
Drink
It might come as a surprise to you, but Dubai is a Party Town. With all the long hours at work, many people like to go out and chill during the week. For the budget traveler, look for Ladies Nights and Happy Hours happening in Dubai. Guaranteed you'll find one for every night of the week. Check out Time Out Dubai or Dubai Look before going out. If you don't have access to the internet, you can buy the “Time Out Dubai” Magazine from any store which includes the full listings for the month.
Sun and Sand
Want to spend a day by the pool at one of the exclusive hotels in Jumeirah, but not pay the high prices of the rooms? Almost all the hotels sell vouchers for a day's access to the hotel's beaches, pools, health club and spa. Sleep in a cheap hotel, spend the day in pure luxury... no one will know. Prices start at $10 and can go up to $60 depending on the hotel.
There are many public beaches, but for only Dhs. 5 ($1.40) you can spend the day at Jumeirah Beach Park on the beach road in Jumeirah. Not only do you have access to the beach with life guards, but you also have gardens, play areas for children, showers and barbecue areas. Note that Saturdays are for women and children only. (Call 04-3492555 for more information)
Transportation
Want to save on transportation? Dubai cabs can be costly for tourists. So, until the Dubai metro gets up and running by year 2009 for the first line and 2015 for the second line, try the buses. Waiting for the bus can take a while, especially since they are hardly on schedule. In the summer months, the heat can become unbearable during the wait and most bus stops don't have a covered waiting area. But taking the bus can turn out to be quite an experience, don't be afraid and make sure you budget the time for the trip as it can take 3 times the amount to get there over taking a taxi.
Renting a car? Don't use the international rental companies. Local companies, especially ones in Sharjah give you rates much less than the big brand names. They will provide drop off and pick up in Sharjah and Dubai. But if you do have problems with renting a car from a no-name car rental, then Budget Car Rental is the best choice for Dubai. Book early from an online booking service to guarantee the best prices and availability. And the best part of renting a car in Dubai? Gas is Cheap!
Entertainment
Dubai Shopping Festival (mid January to mid February) and Dubai Summer Surprises (end of June to beginning of September) hosts free entertainment all month long. Hundreds of shows and events all crammed into one month. You and your kids, if they are tagging along, will not get bored. Fireworks, raffle, street markets, clowns, monster trucks, are just some of the highlights. Go here for more information.
Horse Racing at Nad Al Sheba is held from 28th of October until the 26th of March. Each Race Night stages 6 or 7 individual races, the first starting at 7pm (or 9pm during the Holy Month of Ramadan). Public access to the races is free. Don't forget the world's richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup held in March. (www.dubaiworldcup.com). Unless you want to sit in the VIP section, entrance to the public enclosures is also free for this spectacular event.
Searching for flights to Dubai could not be easier. Find Cheap Flights from 100+ Sites with One Click.
About The Author
Christine Petrosa is a Dubai resident, business professional and a contributing writer for Business in Dubai which contains information on setting up a business in dubai, real estate news, business travel, new projects, jobs in dubai, web links, telephone and addresses directory and a business forum.
Shopping in Dubai
If shopping is your pleasure, then Dubai is your dreams come true. Not only do you have some of the biggest malls in the world with all the major brands, but Dubai, being originally a trading hub between the east and west offers you one of the most fascinating shopping experiences on the globe. From traditional souks (where you can find jewelry and cloth, among many others things), to the Indian markets in Deira, finding everything from spices to electronics. Ask around in the back-alley stores and you can even find that satellite decoder that opens all the paid channels. Don't forget to haggle, they never turn away a customer, and you'll know when you've hit the lowest price.
Communication
Avoid high phone charges in the hotel room and get a pre-paid calling card which you can use from any phone booth and private lines to call international. If you are expecting to stay for a while, get a pre-paid GSM card (WASEL) for Dhs.165 ($45). Limit your outgoing calls and get free incoming calls for a year ( more info ). The WASEL GSM line must be purchased from an Etisalat office (don't forget to bring a passport copy), but pre-paid cards can be purchased from any convenient store, gas stations or tobacco store.
Food
For cheap eats, it's hard to beat the Indian restaurants serving the city's largest working population. Try the buttered chicken with buttered ‘nan' bread, and you'll have cravings for it for years to come. For a $3 meal, expect to eat with your hands, but you can always politely ask for a fork or spoon. The occasional foreigner is expected and well-cared for.
If you're on a tight budget, only eat at hotels when they have meal deals, otherwise, you'll be paying too much. Find Open Buffet specials starting at $10 per person, some Friday Brunch offers include use of the swimming pool for the day. You can find excellent Meal Deals here .
Drink
It might come as a surprise to you, but Dubai is a Party Town. With all the long hours at work, many people like to go out and chill during the week. For the budget traveler, look for Ladies Nights and Happy Hours happening in Dubai. Guaranteed you'll find one for every night of the week. Check out Time Out Dubai or Dubai Look before going out. If you don't have access to the internet, you can buy the “Time Out Dubai” Magazine from any store which includes the full listings for the month.
Sun and Sand
Want to spend a day by the pool at one of the exclusive hotels in Jumeirah, but not pay the high prices of the rooms? Almost all the hotels sell vouchers for a day's access to the hotel's beaches, pools, health club and spa. Sleep in a cheap hotel, spend the day in pure luxury... no one will know. Prices start at $10 and can go up to $60 depending on the hotel.
There are many public beaches, but for only Dhs. 5 ($1.40) you can spend the day at Jumeirah Beach Park on the beach road in Jumeirah. Not only do you have access to the beach with life guards, but you also have gardens, play areas for children, showers and barbecue areas. Note that Saturdays are for women and children only. (Call 04-3492555 for more information)
Transportation
Want to save on transportation? Dubai cabs can be costly for tourists. So, until the Dubai metro gets up and running by year 2009 for the first line and 2015 for the second line, try the buses. Waiting for the bus can take a while, especially since they are hardly on schedule. In the summer months, the heat can become unbearable during the wait and most bus stops don't have a covered waiting area. But taking the bus can turn out to be quite an experience, don't be afraid and make sure you budget the time for the trip as it can take 3 times the amount to get there over taking a taxi.
Renting a car? Don't use the international rental companies. Local companies, especially ones in Sharjah give you rates much less than the big brand names. They will provide drop off and pick up in Sharjah and Dubai. But if you do have problems with renting a car from a no-name car rental, then Budget Car Rental is the best choice for Dubai. Book early from an online booking service to guarantee the best prices and availability. And the best part of renting a car in Dubai? Gas is Cheap!
Entertainment
Dubai Shopping Festival (mid January to mid February) and Dubai Summer Surprises (end of June to beginning of September) hosts free entertainment all month long. Hundreds of shows and events all crammed into one month. You and your kids, if they are tagging along, will not get bored. Fireworks, raffle, street markets, clowns, monster trucks, are just some of the highlights. Go here for more information.
Horse Racing at Nad Al Sheba is held from 28th of October until the 26th of March. Each Race Night stages 6 or 7 individual races, the first starting at 7pm (or 9pm during the Holy Month of Ramadan). Public access to the races is free. Don't forget the world's richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup held in March. (www.dubaiworldcup.com). Unless you want to sit in the VIP section, entrance to the public enclosures is also free for this spectacular event.
Searching for flights to Dubai could not be easier. Find Cheap Flights from 100+ Sites with One Click.
About The Author
Christine Petrosa is a Dubai resident, business professional and a contributing writer for Business in Dubai which contains information on setting up a business in dubai, real estate news, business travel, new projects, jobs in dubai, web links, telephone and addresses directory and a business forum.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Dubai Hotels 101: A MUST READ!
The premier blog for Dubai travel information now set off to provide you with a complete list of hotels for your convenience. More articles brewing, so keep coming back so you can find more helpful information and additional goodies. You'll find at the very bottom of this blog a link to get a quote for your travel thru Kayak. All for your convenience.
There are basically 2 parts of Dubai: "old and new"
Old Dubai is the area located around the Dubai Creek, the souks (=bazaars) and extending to the areas called "Bur Dubai", "Mankhool" and "Karama" as well as the beginning of Sheikh Zayed Road (near Dubai World Trade Centre).
MAPS:
>> There is a very good STREET map on the website of the tourism department: (java file)
http://www.dubaitourism.ae/Map/default.asp
>> and here are some slightly older but still very useful maps:
http://www.dubaicityguide.com/maps/maps.asp
Then there are all of the new developments further outside of town. This is where Dubai Marina is being built, and where all the 5-star beach hotels are located. This area is also nice, but if you want to see a lot of what Dubai has to offer, you really should stay in the "older" part. Dubai's traffic is extremely bad, so I recommend that you stay close to places of interest, otherwise you could spend hours in traffic jams...
HOTELS
Al Khaleej Palace Hotel (Deira)
http://www.alkhaleejhotels.com/
Tel: +971 4 223 1000
Ambassador Hotel (Bur Dubai)
http://www.astamb.com/amb.asp
Tel: +971 4 393 9444
Astoria Hotel (Bur Dubai, adjacent to Ambassador Hotel)
http://www.astamb.com/astoria.asp
Tel: +971 4 353 4300
The ARABIAN COURTYARD HOTEL (4-star hotel in Bur Dubai)
Tel : +971-4-3519111
Fax : +971-4-3517744
http://www.arabiancourtyard.com/
The ARABIAN PARK HOTEL (3-star hotel in Bur Dubai)
Tel: +971-4-3245999
Fax: +971-4-3245550
www.arabianparkhoteldubai.com
The ASCOT HOTEL DUBAI (3-star hotel in Bur Dubai)
Tel: +971-4-3520900
http://www.ascothoteldubai.com/
Regent Beach Resort (the only 3-star hotel on the beach)
http://www.ramee-group.com/ramee/regent_beach/profile.htm
Tel: +971 4 344 5777
Seashell Inn Hotel (Bur Dubai)
http://www.landmarkhotelsdubai.com/landmark/sshome.asp Tel: +971 4 393 4777
4 Point Sheraton Hotel (Bur Dubai)
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/fourpoints/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1230
Tel: +971 4 3977 444
Tulip Inn Hotel (Knowledge Village) 3-star
Tel: +971 4 3671222
Fax: +971 4 3688968
Website: www.tulipinnknowledgevillage.com (Nominated for the « Best Value Hotel » by MENA travel awards 2007)
RYDGES PLAZA HOTEL (4 star):
http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/tp/13e4da/
IBIS Hotel at World Trade Centre (3 star):
Tel : (+971)-4-3324444
Fax : (+971)-4-3311220
http://www.ibishotel.com/ibis/fichehotel/gb/ibi/3572/fiche_hotel.shtml
NOVOTEL at World Trade Centre (4 star)
Tel : (+971)-4-3320000
Fax : (+971)-4-3320001
http://www.novotel.com/novotel/fichehotel/gb/nov/5261/fiche_hotel.shtml
or try some of the hotel apartments in the area of Bur Dubai (near the creek):
PEARL RESIDENCE Hotel Apartments (very popular)
00971 - 4 ? 3558111
Fax: 00971-4-3550530
http://www.pearlresidence.com/
http://www.pearlresidence.com/accomodation.html
There are basically 2 parts of Dubai: "old and new"
Old Dubai is the area located around the Dubai Creek, the souks (=bazaars) and extending to the areas called "Bur Dubai", "Mankhool" and "Karama" as well as the beginning of Sheikh Zayed Road (near Dubai World Trade Centre).
MAPS:
>> There is a very good STREET map on the website of the tourism department: (java file)
http://www.dubaitourism.ae/Map/default.asp
>> and here are some slightly older but still very useful maps:
http://www.dubaicityguide.com/maps/maps.asp
Then there are all of the new developments further outside of town. This is where Dubai Marina is being built, and where all the 5-star beach hotels are located. This area is also nice, but if you want to see a lot of what Dubai has to offer, you really should stay in the "older" part. Dubai's traffic is extremely bad, so I recommend that you stay close to places of interest, otherwise you could spend hours in traffic jams...
HOTELS
Al Khaleej Palace Hotel (Deira)
http://www.alkhaleejhotels.com/
Tel: +971 4 223 1000
Ambassador Hotel (Bur Dubai)
http://www.astamb.com/amb.asp
Tel: +971 4 393 9444
Astoria Hotel (Bur Dubai, adjacent to Ambassador Hotel)
http://www.astamb.com/astoria.asp
Tel: +971 4 353 4300
The ARABIAN COURTYARD HOTEL (4-star hotel in Bur Dubai)
Tel : +971-4-3519111
Fax : +971-4-3517744
http://www.arabiancourtyard.com/
The ARABIAN PARK HOTEL (3-star hotel in Bur Dubai)
Tel: +971-4-3245999
Fax: +971-4-3245550
www.arabianparkhoteldubai.com
The ASCOT HOTEL DUBAI (3-star hotel in Bur Dubai)
Tel: +971-4-3520900
http://www.ascothoteldubai.com/
Regent Beach Resort (the only 3-star hotel on the beach)
http://www.ramee-group.com/ramee/regent_beach/profile.htm
Tel: +971 4 344 5777
Seashell Inn Hotel (Bur Dubai)
http://www.landmarkhotelsdubai.com/landmark/sshome.asp Tel: +971 4 393 4777
4 Point Sheraton Hotel (Bur Dubai)
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/fourpoints/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1230
Tel: +971 4 3977 444
Tulip Inn Hotel (Knowledge Village) 3-star
Tel: +971 4 3671222
Fax: +971 4 3688968
Website: www.tulipinnknowledgevillage.com (Nominated for the « Best Value Hotel » by MENA travel awards 2007)
RYDGES PLAZA HOTEL (4 star):
http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/tp/13e4da/
IBIS Hotel at World Trade Centre (3 star):
Tel : (+971)-4-3324444
Fax : (+971)-4-3311220
http://www.ibishotel.com/ibis/fichehotel/gb/ibi/3572/fiche_hotel.shtml
NOVOTEL at World Trade Centre (4 star)
Tel : (+971)-4-3320000
Fax : (+971)-4-3320001
http://www.novotel.com/novotel/fichehotel/gb/nov/5261/fiche_hotel.shtml
or try some of the hotel apartments in the area of Bur Dubai (near the creek):
PEARL RESIDENCE Hotel Apartments (very popular)
00971 - 4 ? 3558111
Fax: 00971-4-3550530
http://www.pearlresidence.com/
http://www.pearlresidence.com/accomodation.html
What every traveler to Dubai must know
Ten Things YOU MUST Know Before Taking Holidays In Dubai
Dubai has become a very popular tourist destination. There are few things you must know before taking holidays in Dubai. These tips will help you to get the best from your Dubai vacation.
1. Best time to visit – Dubai has extreme weather conditions. Few months of the year are extremely hot. The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March. This is the “winter” period in Dubai. The temperature is mild (average 20C).
2. Avoid Ramadan – Ramadan is the fasting month of Muslims. Ramadan usually falls in September-October period. There is a daily fasting time, which approximately starts around 5:00am and ends around 5:00pm. NO ONE (including tourists) can eat, drink or even smoke in public places during this time.
3. Visa requirements – You may have to apply for a visit visa before visiting Dubai. Citizens of few countries (first world countries such as USA, UK, Australia etc) can get visa on arrival. Check with your travel agent to confirm the visa requirement for your country.
4. Liquor – Visitors cannot buy liquor from liquor shops in Dubai. Only residence who are holding a liquor license can buy them. Visitors have to go to a bar in a hotel or to a nightclub to get liquor.
Tip: Buy liquor from the Dubai duty free on arrival.
5. Car rentals – Taxi fare is expensive in Dubai. Rent a car is the best option. Do it in advance.
6. Driving – Dubai is a left hand driven state.
7. Accommodation options – Dubai has a range of accommodation options. So do not spend unnecessarily on accommodation. There are cheap but quality 2 start hotels. If you are travelling with a big group then renting an apartment is the cheapest option. Do not let your travel agent to limit your options.
8. Shopping – Dubai is a paradise for shoppers. Shopping malls, gold and cheap electronics will tempt you to buy even unwanted stuff. Have a shopping budget and stick to it. “Discount” is a common word in Dubai. You must always ask for a discount, because sellers are always keeping a margin for discount.
9. Language – Arabic is the main language in Dubai. Most of them can understand and speak English. But make sure that you speak slowly for them to understand properly.
10. Law – Dubai has become one of the safest places on earth because of tough laws. Respect the law and Dubai culture.
Visit http://www.thatsdubai.com for more useful tips.
About The Author
Article by: Uthkusa Gamanayake who lived in Dubai for 5 years. You can read a unique review of holidays in Dubai and valuable tips for your Dubai vacation in his web site http://www.thatsdubai.com/
As always, I'm always scouring for more and more information that is relevant and truly useful. Please feel free to visit these other helpful websites below to help you arrange your travel to Dubai. And good luck on your travels. See you here tomorrow with more exciting insider secrets about traveling to Dubai!
Dubai has become a very popular tourist destination. There are few things you must know before taking holidays in Dubai. These tips will help you to get the best from your Dubai vacation.
1. Best time to visit – Dubai has extreme weather conditions. Few months of the year are extremely hot. The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March. This is the “winter” period in Dubai. The temperature is mild (average 20C).
2. Avoid Ramadan – Ramadan is the fasting month of Muslims. Ramadan usually falls in September-October period. There is a daily fasting time, which approximately starts around 5:00am and ends around 5:00pm. NO ONE (including tourists) can eat, drink or even smoke in public places during this time.
3. Visa requirements – You may have to apply for a visit visa before visiting Dubai. Citizens of few countries (first world countries such as USA, UK, Australia etc) can get visa on arrival. Check with your travel agent to confirm the visa requirement for your country.
4. Liquor – Visitors cannot buy liquor from liquor shops in Dubai. Only residence who are holding a liquor license can buy them. Visitors have to go to a bar in a hotel or to a nightclub to get liquor.
Tip: Buy liquor from the Dubai duty free on arrival.
5. Car rentals – Taxi fare is expensive in Dubai. Rent a car is the best option. Do it in advance.
6. Driving – Dubai is a left hand driven state.
7. Accommodation options – Dubai has a range of accommodation options. So do not spend unnecessarily on accommodation. There are cheap but quality 2 start hotels. If you are travelling with a big group then renting an apartment is the cheapest option. Do not let your travel agent to limit your options.
8. Shopping – Dubai is a paradise for shoppers. Shopping malls, gold and cheap electronics will tempt you to buy even unwanted stuff. Have a shopping budget and stick to it. “Discount” is a common word in Dubai. You must always ask for a discount, because sellers are always keeping a margin for discount.
9. Language – Arabic is the main language in Dubai. Most of them can understand and speak English. But make sure that you speak slowly for them to understand properly.
10. Law – Dubai has become one of the safest places on earth because of tough laws. Respect the law and Dubai culture.
Visit http://www.thatsdubai.com for more useful tips.
About The Author
Article by: Uthkusa Gamanayake who lived in Dubai for 5 years. You can read a unique review of holidays in Dubai and valuable tips for your Dubai vacation in his web site http://www.thatsdubai.com/
As always, I'm always scouring for more and more information that is relevant and truly useful. Please feel free to visit these other helpful websites below to help you arrange your travel to Dubai. And good luck on your travels. See you here tomorrow with more exciting insider secrets about traveling to Dubai!
Sunday, March 18, 2007
DUBAI: Shopper's Heaven!
Shopping Centres in Dubai
The city of Dubai is an open port with low import duties and no taxation, and as such offers unbeatable value to the bargain hunter. Even major brand name products, widely available in the city, are often less expensive in Dubai than in their country of origin. Opening hours vary but shops are generally open from 8AM to 1PM and from 4PM to 9PM. Although most shops are open on Friday evenings they close for prayers between 11:30AM and 1:30PM.
The major shopping areas of the city are Al Faheidi Road, Al Rigga Road, Al Karama, Al Satwa’s Al Dhiyafah Road and Beniyas Square. The modern shopping malls, located throughout the city, contrast with the sights, sounds and smells of the traditional souks.
Bargaining is the norm in the souks and even in shops it is wise to ask for ‘the best price’, particularly if paying by cash.
Al Dhiyafah Road, Al Satwa
A lively, upmarket shopping area lining the street with exclusive fashion boutiques, fabric stores, restaurants and cafés. A good place to buy, or just to stroll and browse.
Al Ghurair Centre
Tel: (+ 9714) 2232333
Dubai’s first shopping mall has hundreds of stores with a wide range of medium to high priced products.
Open 9AM - 1PM and 5PM - 10PM
Al Karama Shopping Centre
A popular centre offering unbeatable value. Clothing, accessories, toys and furniture are on offer, alongside fish and vegetable stalls and supermarkets.
Al Khaleej Centre
Tel: (+9714) 3555 550
Located in the heart of Dubai, renowned for its design, prestige and inspiration, guaranteed satisfying shopping and business experience.
Open: 10:00 am - 1:00pm, 4:00pm - 10:00pm Daily
2:00pm - 10:00pm Fridays
Al Manal Centre
Tel: (+ 9714) 2277701
Jewellery, watches and ladies fashions.
Open 9:30am - 1PM and 4:30pm - 9PM
Al Mulla Plaza
Tel: (+ 9714) 2665885
A medium-sized shopping mall with a wide selection of boutiques and shops.
Open 9:30am - 1PM and 4PM - 10PM
Al Sabkha Souk
Adjacent to Deira Covered Souk, Al Sabkha Souk is packed with the latest in electronics. Video, audio and TV systems, home appliances and photographic equipment are all available at very competitive prices.
Beach Centre
Tel: (+ 9714) 3449045
Fashion boutiques.
Open 9am - 1pm and 4pm - 9:30pm
Bur Juman Centre
Tel: (+ 9714) 3520222
One of Bur Dubai’s newer malls, with a large number of outlets, including European and American chain-stores.
Open 9:30am - 1pm and 4:30pm - 9:30pm
The Center
Tel: (+ 9714) 2665756
A compact, American-style neighbourhood shopping mall, situated opposite Al Muraqqabat Interchange and Dubai Cinema, with smart shops, and a wide choice of branded goods.
Open 10am - 1pm and 5pm - 9pm
Deira City Centre
Tel: (9714) 2951010
Deira Covered Souk
In this fascinating maze of alleyways can be found a huge variety of goods, but the Old Souk is visited particularly for its spices.
The narrow lanes of the smells of cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, incense, dried fruit and nuts, imported from all over the Middle East. Produce is sold straight out of large open sacks that surround the shopkeepers.
Dubai Old Souk and Al Faheidi Road
The old, narrow alleys of this traditional souk on Dubai side of the Creek are known for their superb textile bargains. Silks, cotton, lace, wool, chiffon and other textiles from all over the world, in a wide variety of designs and textures, are also sold in the stores which line Al Faheidi Road and the surrounding area of Bur Dubai. Prices are very low.
The Galleria
Tel: (+ 9714) 2238200
Up market shops adjoining the Hyatt Regency Hotel.
Open 9am - 1pm and 4pm - 8:30pm
Gold Souk
One of the largest retail gold markets in the world, the Gold Souk sells everything from ingots to intricately worked jewellery, as well as pearls and precious stones, at bargain prices. Alleys of small shops are hidden behind the larger street front stores whose windows are tightly packed with gold jewellery from all over the world.
Hamarain Centre
Tel: (+ 9714) 2661164
Deira’s recently opened shopping centre, decorated with fountains and cascading plants, has a food court and very exclusive shopping. Visit for antiques and local handicrafts.
Open 10.00am - 1pm and 4pm - 10pm
The Holiday Centre Shopping Mall
Tel. No.: 3317755, Fax No.: 3311204
Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, is one of the oldest well known shopping malls in town & is in the same complex adjacent to Crowne Plaza & the Residential Tower. Built on two levels, the Holiday Centre Shopping Mall consists of a selection of exclusive shops & boutiques of various sizes & profiles offering versatility & greater choice.
E-mail address: deltaest@emirates.net.ae
Inter-Continental Plaza
Tel: (+ 9714) 2222691
Exclusive fashions and jewellery.
Open 8:30am - 1pm and 4:30pm - 9pm
Jumbo House
JUMBO's one stop shop, for all major brands in Electronics and Computer Industry near Ramada Round About is a real shopping experience for you. World's leading brands like, SONY, COMPAQ, NEC, CASIO, Electrolux, Brother, Grundig, etc. JUMBO has it's 16 showrooms all over the emirates of UAE.
Tel : (+9714) 523555, 824888.
***OPENS EARLY CLOSES LATE***
Jumeira Plaza Mall
Tel: (+ 9714) 3497111
Modern mall with wide range of products.
Open 7am - 11PM
Magrudy Shopping Mall
Tel: (+ 9714) 3444192
International and local shops.
Open Fri-Wed 8:30am - 1pm and 4pm - 10pm
Thur 4pm - 9pm
Markaz Al Jumeira
Tel: (+ 9714) 3494214
International and local shops.
Open 8am - 1pm and 4pm - 9pm
Meat, fish and vegetable market
Visitors to the modern fish souk need to be early risers or night owls to see the fishermen unload their huge variety of fish twice a day and to witness the fierce bargaining which follows.
The colourful and busy modern fruit and vegetable souks continue to attract visitors.
MERCATO – “The Good Life”
Jumeirah
Tel: 971 4 3444161
Fax: 971 4 3490066
E-mail: marketing@mercato.com
Opened in October 2002. It reflects the elegance and beauty of Mediterranean art with direct influence of the grand Renaissance architecture. Its imposing colonnades, colourful murals and cobbled floors create a distinctive ‘high street’ ambience. It includes a wide range of well-known stores and boutiques, restaurants, a major supermarket and a 7-screen Cineplex. Several of its stores carry famous international brand names and some have made their debut in Dubai through this mall.
Naif Souk
Fully renovated traditional souk.
TOWN CENTRE – “The Community Mall”- Jumeirah
P.O.Box: 755 Dubai
Tel: 971 4 3440111
Fax: 971 4 3495858
Email – towncjum@emirates.net.ae
Overlooking a stunning view of the Arabian Sea, Town Centre Jumeirah is known for its warm, friendly atmosphere and service with a smile. Essentially a community mall, it offers not only exciting shopping options but also a host of facilities that make life taste better.
Wafi Shopping Mall
Tel: (+ 9714) 3367125
The striking pyramid design of this mall, set in a palm grove near Al Garhoud bridge, is the perfect setting for its wide range of exclusive shops and boutiques.
Open Sat-Wed 9:30pm - 1pm and 4pm - 9:30pm
Thur 9:30am - 1pm and 4:30pm - 10pm
Fri 4:30pm to 10pm
Source: http://www.dwtc.com/directory/shopping.htm
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Friday, March 16, 2007
Somak's Dubai – A Strictly 21st Century City
At the start of the millennium British visitors began flocking to Dubai – one of seven United Arab Emirates. Six years on, the impending opening of The Palm Jumeirah offshore complex (aka ‘the eighth wonder of the world’) and The World Islands, continent shaped man-made islands at Jumeirah, looks set to ensure Dubai’s status as the 21st century star.
An architect’s dream, Dubai’s ultra-modern skyline puts New York’s into the shade. It boasts some of the most exuberant concepts ever conceived – buildings whose pinnacles resemble the nib of a pen; office blocks shaped like super-slim cylinders and hotels built to represent a blown sail or breaking wave. In between are smaller sandstone buildings – often palaces or mosques – whose design harks back to Arabian times as our picture books would portray them.
An architect’s dream, Dubai’s ultra-modern skyline puts New York’s into the shade. It boasts some of the most exuberant concepts ever conceived – buildings whose pinnacles resemble the nib of a pen; office blocks shaped like super-slim cylinders and hotels built to represent a blown sail or breaking wave. In between are smaller sandstone buildings – often palaces or mosques – whose design harks back to Arabian times as our picture books would portray them.
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But Dubai is about more than weird and wonderful hotels. Sun and sand (the beach variety) form the backdrop to bargain-hunting in modern malls and traditional souks, adventure treks into the desert, Arabic culture-cramming and golf. With a choice of international courses golf, Dubai has earned an impressive reputation amongst professional golfers and keen amateurs alike.
Away from the fairways Dubai is a shopper’s paradise. Super modern air-conditioned malls like Bur Jaman and City Centre juxtapose familiar names like Benetton, Laura Ashley and Debenhams with local Arabic ones. The souks provide a more atmospheric experience. A heady aroma comes from huge bowls of spices in the city’s spice souk whilst the much larger gold souk boasts a vast array of chains, Julio Iglesias style and more discreet.
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15 minutes away, Jumeirah Beach makes an ideal holiday base. Here luxury beachfront hotels line up alongside one another behind miles of white sand beach and the shallow aqua waters of the Arabian Gulf.
From Jumeirah 4-wheel drive jeeps pick up daily for the Sundowner dune-bashing ride over the red dunes of Murgham to a Bedu encampment, complete with belly dancer. Active-city breakers can also try camel racing, sand skiing, wadi bashing or even go skiing in the world’s largest snowdome. Lounge-lizards will probably prefer the hotel sun deck.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louise_Newton
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