Things to do in Dubai for the stylish traveller

As winter turns to spring I’m feeling the need for warm air and sunshine. Where better for some winter sun than Dubai, offering a melting pot of cultures and foods, from traditional dhows to gleaming skyscrapers. For the best things to do in Dubai, to get that authentic Dubai experience, I asked my blogging friends Kathryn Burrington and Suzanne Jones for their tips.

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Take a trip across the Dubai Creek

Suzanne’s tip: Discover the traditional Dubai with a simple Abra ride across the Creek which costs just 1 Dirham (around 18p). These little wooden vessels have been transporting people from Bur Dubai on the left bank to Deira on the right and back again since Dubai was just a small fishing port.

Feel the centuries of trading tradition, with traditional Arabian and East African dhows backed by teetering skyscrapers, although things will soon be different when the dhows move to a new wharf further up the Creek. It’s one of the best places to visit in Dubai at sunset, as the call to prayer floats across the water and the sun sinks golden into the horizon. Read More

The View from Burj Khalifa

Kathryn’s Tip: Visit the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, with 830 metres of smooth, shining glass. Book ahead for the ‘At the top’ experience which takes you in a dedicated lift up to the viewing terrace on floor 125. The floor counter whizzes past the numbers at an alarming rate and even when you step out, the tower seems to carry on forever, a further 37 floors into the sky. Looking down the neighbouring skyscrapers take on a miniature appearance as the city stretches out before you. The views are staggering; a not-to-be-missed experience for any first-time visitor. Read More

If you’d like a taste of the Dubai lifestyle check out this luxury car rental in Dubai

Authentic Iranian Kababs in Dubai

Suzanne’s tip: If you’re wondering where to go in Dubai for authentic Arabic street food check out Al Fareej Restaurant and Bakery in the quiet neighbourhood of Al Twar. At this Iranian kabab house we ordered a glass of fresh mint lemonade made with lemons, mint, sugar, water and ice which was thirst-quenching and delicious. The Kababs are served fresh from the grill. Try the tender lamb Koobidah which means twice-minced, the succulent tikka (small bites) or the lemon-infused lamb kabab, all paired with plates of rice, hummus, warm flat bread and a squeeze of fresh lime. Read More

The Dubai Coffee Museum

Kathryn’s Tip: At the Dubai coffee museum, learn about coffee at its finest and sample the best Turkish coffee I’ve ever tasted. I normally find the small cups of black coffee too strong but this had a much smoother and delicate flavour that has transformed my view of black coffee. Read More

Brunch at the Ritz Carlton

Suzanne’s Tip: Treat yourself to brunch at Caravan in the Ritz Carlton, one of the leading hotels in Dubai. The produce is sourced locally and incorporates dishes from Arabia, India and the Mediterranean, with a fish selection is brimming with fresh oysters, lobster and shellfish. Big Rami’s Chicken Shawarma was an aromatic spicy hit and I loved the selection of hummus, slow-cooked couscous and roasted vegetables. Enjoy some of the special cocktails such as the delicious Bedouin Beauty made with fresh pomegranate juice, a delicate Pear Dew Cider or even champagne.

If you’re thinking of booking a winter sunshine holiday, check out the Travel Trolley website. Their flights page has the latest offers on holidays around the world, from Dubai to Bangkok and Australia to South Africa.

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This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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