A Week in the United Arab Emirates: Modern Marvels and Timeless Tradition

Highlights

• Burj Khalifa: Standing tall at 2,722 feet with 163 floors, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. Offering panoramic views of Dubai that are nothing short of breathtaking. We went all the way to the top to enjoy the observation deck on the 148th floor. It provides a sweeping view of the desert, the Dubai skyline and the surrounding waters. We opted for the "At the Top of the Sky" package, which gave us exclusive access to the higher viewing platform on the 148th floor, offering even more incredible views. We also had the chance to relax in the Skyview and Gold lounges. Here we enjoyed a more luxurious, intimate experience with drinks and snacks while taking in the stunning views of the city. The building is complete with a bustling square and fountain, and a great time to visit is at night, when the entire structure is lit up and light shows illuminate the fountain below. A must-see for anyone visiting Dubai, and the perfect spot for photos.

• The Dubai Mall & Aquarium: Adjacent to the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall is more than just a shopping destination. It houses the Dubai Aquarium, where you can walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays and a myriad of exotic fish. The indoor waterfall and the ice rink also make for fun breaks during your visit.

• Dubai Frame: Dubai’s skyline is best viewed from the Dubai Frame, a towering structure that offers a striking visual contrast between the city’s modern, glitzy towers and its traditional low-rise areas. The observation deck at the top gives you a 360-degree view that’s worth the visit.

• Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood: To take a step back in time, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood offers a glimpse into old Dubai. This traditional neighborhood, which dates back to the mid-1800s, remained a key area until the 1970s. With its narrow alleys, wind towers and charming courtyards, it’s easy to imagine what life in the city was like centuries ago. I loved wandering through the streets, stopping by the Dubai Museum and experiencing the serenity of this quieter side of the city.

• Souk Madinat Jumeirah: This market feels like a mix of the old and new, with traditional Arabian architecture housing high-end boutiques and casual eateries. The waterways here are perfect for a boat ride, and you’ll get great views of the iconic Burj Al Arab from the souk’s walkways.

• Desert Safari: We took the desert safari in the evening, which included dinner at Bab Al Shams' Al Hadheerah Restaurant, nestled in the sand dunes. There was live entertainment, including singing, belly dancing with fire and a spectacular show projected on the fortress-like walls of the restaurant. The outdoor buffet was one of the largest I’ve ever seen, with about 20 different stations to choose from. You could also take camel rides through the dunes, making it a truly magical experience.

• Burj Al Arab: Once the tallest building in the world until 2007, the Burj Al Arab remains one of the most iconic landmarks in Dubai. We visited for drinks one evening, and the views from the 27th floor were absolutely spectacular. The hotel’s sail-shaped silhouette, standing on its own island, provides a stunning backdrop for a memorable evening. It’s an experience worth indulging in for the unparalleled luxury and incredible views.

• Dubai Creek: One of the most iconic experiences in Dubai is a visit to Dubai Creek. It’s a must-do for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history. You can take a traditional boat ride on an abra, a wooden vessel used for ferrying passengers across the creek. Alternatively, you can enjoy a ride on a dhow, a traditional wooden boat used for both passenger transport and trade for centuries. The charm of the ride is in its simplicity, as you float between the bustling markets on either side of the water. The view from the water gives you a unique perspective of Dubai, showcasing the juxtaposition of old and new. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the city's heritage.

• Palm Jumeirah: The Palm Jumeirah is a marvel of engineering. An artificial archipelago in the shape of a palm tree that is home to some of Dubai’s most luxurious hotels and resorts. I dined at one of the upscale restaurants here, where the atmosphere was sophisticated and welcoming. The restaurant offered an extensive menu of international and Middle Eastern cuisine, with dishes that showcased both fresh local ingredients and global flavors. The views of the Arabian Gulf were breathtaking. And the setting, with its elegant décor and impeccable service, made for a memorable dining experience.

• Monorail Ride from Palm Jumeirah to the Marina: We took the monorail from Palm Jumeirah to the Marina, which was a cool experience. The monorail offers a unique and scenic view of the Palm and surrounding areas, making it a fun and quick way to explore this iconic part of Dubai.

Day trips:

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi): A day trip to Abu Dhabi isn’t complete without visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This architectural wonder features four towering minarets and a large chandelier made of over 1 million Swarovski crystals. The mosque’s columns and floors are made from semi-precious stones and marble, including Macedonian and Italian marble. The intricate designs and serene beauty make it one of the most awe-inspiring landmarks in the UAE.

• Etihad Towers (Abu Dhabi): For an iconic Abu Dhabi experience, the Etihad Towers are a must-visit. These five towers, which house luxury hotels, offices and residences, offer a stunning view of the city and its coast. The observation deck on the 74th floor provides 360-degree views of the city’s skyline, the Corniche, and beyond. It’s a fantastic place to capture the modern beauty of Abu Dhabi.

• Louvre Abu Dhabi: In Abu Dhabi, the Louvre Museum stands as a symbol of the UAE's commitment to culture. The museum's stunning architecture is complemented by an impressive collection of art and artifacts from across the world. Making it a must-visit for any art lover.

Where I ate:

• Creekside Restaurant & Café: We had lunch at Creekside Restaurant & Café, located near Dubai Creek. This charming spot offers a relaxed atmosphere and a great variety of international dishes. The perfect place to unwind with a meal while taking in views of the creek.

• Arabian Tea House Café: We started one of our mornings with breakfast at the Arabian Tea House Café in the Al Fahidi District. This charming café offers a traditional Emirati breakfast experience with dishes like hummus, falafel and Arabic coffee. The laid-back atmosphere in the courtyard, surrounded by greenery, made it the perfect spot for a leisurely start to the day.

• At.mosphere (Burj Khalifa): If you’re looking for a dining experience with a view, At.mosphere is the place to be. Located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, this upscale restaurant offers world-class cuisine alongside unmatched views of the city. The dinner menu is sophisticated, with a fine selection of seafood and European-inspired dishes.

• Fermati: For a unique and cozy dining experience, Fermati offers a vibrant ambiance and a great menu. The blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes, along with a great coffee selection, makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal in Dubai.

• La Mer: This trendy beachside area offers everything from casual bites to fine dining. I enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and great food, particularly the seafood. There are plenty of dining options here, with views of the sea and sunset, making it a great way to wind down after a busy day.

• Siddharta Lounge by Buddha Bar: We had drinks and tapas at Siddharta Lounge by Buddha Bar, located at the Grosvenor House Dubai. This trendy, upscale lounge offers a vibrant atmosphere with stunning views of the marina. The tapas menu is a perfect mix of Mediterranean and Asian flavors, making it a great place for a casual yet elegant dining experience.

• Al Fanar Restaurant & Café: For a truly authentic Emirati experience, Al Fanar is a fantastic choice. Located in the Dubai Festival City Mall, this restaurant offers traditional Emirati dishes in a setting that recreates the look and feel of Dubai in the 1960s. The machboos (spiced rice with meat) is a must-try!