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| Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
The city of Dubai is a major tourist destination and has become known as the ‘Shopping Capital of the Middle East’. It is one of the only cities in the world which is easily identified from space through the amazing ‘Palm of Jumeirah’, the world’s largest man-made island complex. Dubai is one of the largest and fastest growing cities in the United Arab Emirates and is a rapidly emerging world business and tourist hub with people travelling to the region for work and leisure. The city boasts a diverse economy expanded through the Jebel Ali Free Zone, innovative real estate, hotel and tourist developments, and being the home base of Dubai’s own Emirates Airline. In conjunction with the rapid growth of the airline, tourism has also expanded, stimulating the recent growth of hotels in the city such as the iconic structures of the Burj al-Arab which is one of the world’s tallest hotels, or the Jumeirah Beach Hotel which was built to resemble a wave. Tourists arriving in Dubai are surprised at the extremes that exist, from the majestic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, luxury hotels and high rise buildings to the traditional dowhs in Dubai Creek; from the old gold, carpet and spice souks to the superb, air-conditioned designer label shopping centres; and from camels to busy, traffic congested streets. The hustle and bustle of downtown Dubai is in itself an experience worth witnessing and is complemented with a multitude of diverse local activities such as the continuous loading of dowhs by hand, street-vendors selling their wares, ladies in traditional dress and busy side street tea houses full of animated chatter and hubble-bubble pipes. It is after all the Middle East!
Although many tourists are attracted to Dubai for its warm weather, long sandy beaches and extensive range of water sports, the city offers more to the casual visitor than at first thought. Boasting a long and rich heritage, Dubai continues the traditions of local traders, fishermen and craftsmen all of which can be seen by visitors as they explore the labyrinth of narrow winding alleys of the old Bastakiya, Deira, Port Saeed and Al Jaddaf districts of the city. Here it is still possible to witness craftsmen hand carving dowhs; see many of the traditional fishing traditions of Dubai; experience the wonders of the spice souks with their aromatic smells; and the gold souks with their beautiful hand crafted gold bracelets, earrings and necklaces. In this area visitors can fill their senses with the smell of perfumes and incense, see foods piled high, search for that authentic carpet or browse for antique items such as daggers, Arabian chests and elaborate wood carvings. Attractions include the Dubai Museum, which is housed in the old restored Al Fahidi Fort that was constructed in 1799 and contains colourful and evocative dioramas complete with life size figures; the Jumeirah Mosque which is recognised as a wonderful example of Islamic architecture; the house of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum which was built in the early 1800’s and is a fine example of old regional architecture with layers of rooms built around a central courtyard, and includes traditional wind-towers to catch those cooling breezes; the Heritage Village which exhibits traditional pottery and weaving displays; and the adjacent Diving Village which relates the story of the once important pearling industry.
The United Arab Emirates is a very moderate Moslem country and is tolerant to all religions due to the nature of its multicultural population. However the drinking of alcohol in public is not permitted, although acceptable within hotels, and it is important to respect local religious traditions with women asked to dress appropriately. If visiting a mosque it is necessary to take your shoes off and cover your head.
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Raffles Dubai
Dubai
 |  Relaxation and indulgence beckon at Raffles Dubai, where days are filled with the inimitable Raffles hospitality and nights with a Middle Eastern touch.
Located next to Wafi, Dubai's ultra exclusive lifestyle complex, just 10 minutes from the Dubai International Airport, this prominent landmark, bui... |
Traders Hotel
Dubai
 | Traders Hotel Dubai is a the 4 star brand of Shangri-La offering a quality deluxe hotel with all the effeciencies, warmth, comfort and consistent personalised service of a Shangri-La Hotel.
The building itself is unobtrusive, a low rise design that portrays and Arabic feel in it's exterior. The int... |
Sofitel City Centre Hotel & Residence Dubai
Dubai
|  The Sofitel Dubai is adjacent to a world class golf course and the Deira City Shopping Centre. Only a five minute shuttle bus to Dubai Airport which is provided free for guests.
The hotel is an imposing concrete and glass building with Arabic-style detailing and a rooftop pool.
The restaurants and ... |
Ibis World Trade Centre
Dubai
 |  The Ibis World Trade Centre hotel is directly linked to the International Exhibition Centre and Convention Centre of Dubai, the biggest international complex in the Middle East.
Located right on one of the main roundabouts coming off Sheikh Zayed Road, the hotel is close to the tourist and business... |
Shangri-La Hotel
Dubai
|  The Shangri-La Hotel Dubai was the first venture into the United Arab Emirates for the Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts. Opening in July 2003 the hotel has set new standards of service, hospitality and value for money.
The building is 200 metres tall, a total of 43 stories for the hotel and is situated ... |
Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers
Dubai
|  The Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers is perfectly located, just a short stroll down dubai creek takes you right to the heart of the Gold and Spice Souks, a short car trip will get you to Festival City for shopping with all the major brands at reasonable prices.
The hotel itself is amazing, jump ... |
Rydges Plaza Hotel Dubai
Dubai
|  The Rydges Plaza Hotel is situated in the Al-Diyafah shopping district.
Providing travellers with luxury accommodation and fantastic facilities from an outdoor swimming pool and fitness centre to multiple fine dining restaurants such as Il Rustico, Four Seasons, Raffles Restaurant and Legends.
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Dubai City Half-Day Tour
Tour
Dubai |  Experience the historic sites and bustling cosmopolitan life of Dubai on this fully guided sightseeing tour of the city. Highlights of the tour include a photo stop at the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel, Jumeirah and Jumeirah Mosque, the Bastakiya Quarter and Dubai Museum, a water taxi across to the spic... |
4x4 Dubai Desert Safari
Dubai |  If you are looking for a real Middle Eastern Desert experience on your trip to Dubai, then this is the perfect tour for you. Journey into the deserts of Dubai by 4WD to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience life as a nomad! Combined with fun activities for everyone including sandb... |
Abu Dhabi City Tour
Tour
Dubai |  Discover the wonders of Abu Dhabi, capital of the Emirates, known as the Arabian Jewel. On the way to Abu Dhabi you will pass by Jebel Ali Port, which is the biggest man-made port in the world. Other highlights of the trip include the Women's Handicraft Centre, Abu Dhabi's oldest building, Al Husn P... |
Day Tour to the East Coast
Tour
Dubai |  If you've been craving a change in scenery after all that time spent in the chaos that is Dubai, then this tour is the perfect adventure for you! You will drive through the lush oasis of Al Dhaid, renowned for its fruit and vegetable plantations. Then you will move onto Masafi, and the picturesque H... |
Dubai Hop-on Hop-off Tour
Tour
Dubai |  Explore Dubai at your own pace on an extensive hop-on hop-off bus tour through the heart of the city. In addition to unlimited circuits during the 24 hour period, your ticket includes free admission into Dubai Museum and a free Arabian Dhow Cruise. The Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour of Dubai is a fantastic... |
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