“Connecting minds, creating the future”. The motto chosen by Expo 2020 Dubai (until March 31) could not have been more accurate, since, in addition to promote the concepts of opportunity, mobility and sustainability that govern this universal exhibition – the first held in the Middle East – perfectly summarizes the very essence of the emirate: always innovative, multicultural and futuristic.
Dubai it is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city. A crossroads – its airport connects with hundreds of destinations – in which more than 200 nationalities coexist in harmony, but which retains its strong cultural heritage. There are skyscrapers, yes, many, some of them converted into architectural icons for their constructive audacity and height; but also, alleys to get lost in –and encounter the past– in the vicinity of Dubai Creek. That is why it is time to leave behind clichés and stereotypes to discover a destination that has it all: beach, desert, mountain, city and even snow.
The beach and Burj Al Arab in the background.
URBAN EXPERIENCE
We know that among the 'must see' in Dubai are climb to the 148th floor terrace of the impressive Burj Khalifa to enjoy the views or take pictures with the sail-shaped profile of the Burj Al Arab in the background (now thanks to the Inside Burj Al Arab experience you can visit inside), but we recommend staying at ground level to enjoy another high-rise urban experience: touring Bur Dubai, one of the oldest parts of the city.
haggle in the Bur Dubai souk – whose origins are related to the sale of fabrics. Get to know the Hindu temple, always worshiping by flower garlands, and the colorful Ali Ibn Abi Talib mosque. Marvel at the traditional architecture of the Al Fahidi neighborhood –also known as Al Bastakiya– and its wind towers or badgir, which serve to ventilate the houses. And do not forget, before entering one of its traditional teahouses, visit the House of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, the Seikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding or the Dubai Museum, responsible for disseminating its history, culture and traditions.
Souk.
AQUATIC EXPERIENCE
they will tell you that go shopping in its huge malls is worth mentioning, and we agree, however there is a water experience (yes, you read that right) in Dubai that is much more authentic and picturesque: cross the Dubai Creek in open.
if you take this traditional wooden boat at dawn (it costs 1 AED, about 25 euro cents), you will see the hustle and bustle of the merchants and you will discover the old part of the city in turmoil. Especially if you choose the route that goes from the abra station of the old Deira souk to the Bur Dubai Abra (to the west of the old souk). Although there is also the possibility of rent a open for you alone for an hour for less than €30.
Walk in 'abra'.
GASTRONOMIC EXPERIENCE
The cultural imprint of people – of different nationalities – who have passed through or have settled in Dubai is so rich and varied which has earned him the nickname gastronomic capital of the region.
Fusion of Lebanese, Iranian and Syrian flavors, Dubai cuisine stands out for its exoticism and color, with spices as protagonists. The gastronomic tradition of the arabian peninsula is reflected in stone-baked breads, date-based sweets or mezzé – From a hummus up to a Tabulate- with which to whet the appetite and give color to the table. You also have to try the roast lamb dishes, such as the Ghuzi.
Now in a place that boasts of having 6,000 restaurants – from Michelin-starred chefs to street food stalls – the offer is so endless that we can find cuisines from all over the world: Indian, African, French, Pakistani, Greek, Italian, Turkish… You can even have a gazpacho at the Seville's restaurant, owned by Mariano Andrés, brother of the well-known chef José Andrés.
African cuisine dishes in Tribes.
NATURAL EXPERIENCE
With more than 700 hotels –of all categories and prices– within our reach, finding an accommodation in Dubai that meets all our expectations and needs will not be complicated. Yes, if we want to live an authentic adventure in nature, the best option will be to choose a Bedouin camp to sleep in the middle of the desert dunes. The experience, which usually includes an Emirati dinner, falconry shows or camel rides, can be completed with a 4x4 safari to observe the native flora and fauna.
Desert Safari.