Book the best 5 Star Luxury Hotels in Dubai

Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyles and love of glitzy and glamorous. People come from all over the world to experience the luxury and excitement that the city offers. So whether you're looking to gamble the night away or enjoy the finer things in life, Dubai will give you a good time.

With its beautiful Persian Gulf shoreline and international culinary scene, Dubai has everything you could want in a vacation destination.

Dubai is like nowhere else on Earth. It's a city stuck between the old and the new. On the one hand, there is a conservative culture with vintage customs. But on the other hand, there's a Middle-Eastern Vegas where anything goes. It's a fascinating place that deserves a lot more than a stopover. If you haven't been, you need to check it out.

History of Dubai

Back in 1833, Dubai was nothing more than a small settlement with 800 members of the Bani Yas tribe. The natural harbor created by the creek was what attracted them and transformed the area into a small pearling and fishing center. Over time, Dubai has grown into the bustling metropolis it is today.

The people were one of the first settlers near this lovely creek. They were joined by some Arabian nomads called Bedouins. They made tiny houses known as "Barastis" for themselves. 

In the 1960s, Dubai's economy was barely scraping by on trade and oil exploration concessions. However, when revenue started coming in from oil reserves in 1969, the city began developing rapidly. Today, it's a thriving metropolis with a rich culture and heritage.

With a lot of money being pumped in, Dubai quickly developed into the dazzling metropolis it is today. With new infrastructure like schools and hospitals developing swiftly, it's no wonder Dubai is now one of the most popular tourist destinations globally.

Best Time to Visit 

In Dubai, it's always warm and sunny, but winter is one of the best times to visit. The average temperature in December is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for a vacation.

Early mornings and evenings in the desert can be much more relaxed, and there's plenty of air conditioning to keep you comfortable. Moreover, if you love shopping and fantastic deals, you won't want to miss the Dubai Shopping Festival. Held every January, this festival features live entertainment and fun raffles.

Places to Visit and Things to Do

For a place to have some fun and see some fantastic sights, Dubai is your place. This city has everything from world-famous shopping malls to stunning desert landscapes. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at sand skiing. Whatever you're looking for, you'll find it in Dubai. Below are some of the best places to visit and things to do here in Dubai.

To see some fancy boats and beautiful condos, the marina area is your place. Surrounded by tall buildings, this scenic boardwalk is perfect for a stroll. And with plenty of bars and restaurants with views of the harbor, you're sure to find the ideal spot to relax and have a view of Palm Jumeirah with Atlantis the Palm and the Yacht Club.

Furthermore, for a great place to eat and drink by the water, check out Pier 7. It has seven floors of fantastic restaurants and bars. 

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-see if you're in the area. This massive mosque was built between 1996 and 2007, and it spans over 30 acres. In addition, you can explore the beautiful gardens and learn more about Islamic culture.

The majestic mosque and its vast square are almost entirely white, making it a sight. It's an hour and a half drive from Dubai. However, since it's a place of worship, Make sure to dress appropriately. They usually have cover-ups available for visitors without suitable attire, but it's always best to prepare yourself.

Here, markets like the famous gold market are everywhere, and small shops are on both sides of the streets. You may also get lost in the alleyways if you are not careful.

You can ride the traditional wooden boats and explore the streets at your own pace. Sample the cuisine at some local restaurants, browse the artwork on display in the art district, and glimpse what Dubai is like away from the glamorous malls and towering skyscrapers.

Book a spot on a deep-sea fishing boat. Tour operators cater to all ages, so you can jump right in, even if you've never been before. Most packages even include lunch, so you don't have to worry about packing a lot of food. Prices will vary depending on how long you want to explore and the vessel you choose, but it's worth it for an unforgettable experience in the Arabian Gulf.

This artificial paradise is home to a large shopping walkway and Aquaventure water park. There's also the Atlantis resort, clubs, and plenty of fantastic restaurants and bars. It's a great place to explore during the day, but it cannot be fascinating at night.

This souk is the perfect place to indulge in some fantastic food. Its modern design and beautiful inner courtyard pond are like something straight out of Aladdin. And with some of the best restaurants in town, you're sure to find something to splurge on. 

Culture and Customs

The United Arab Emirates is home to seven great states, or "Emirates," each with its Arabic ruler, or "sheik"! These Emirates are Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Ajman, Ras al-Khaimah, Umm al Quwain, Sharjah, and Dubai.

The Abu Dhabi sheik is the president of the Federal Supreme Council, which is both the executive body and UAE's legislative. The Dubai sheik is the vice president.

You'll be happy to know that most major credit cards are accepted in Dubai, so you can enjoy all the city offers without worry. And don't worry about not speaking Arabic - almost everyone in Dubai speaks English.

If you're paying in cash, the official currency in Dubai is the Emirati dirham (AED). That's about $0.27. Additionally, it's essential to be aware that many residents dress conservatively. However, the UAE is much more relaxed than other parts of the Middle East, so feel free to dress as you please. Just be respectful and make sure your outfit is tasteful. 

Short shorts and sundresses are acceptable during the summer, but make sure your clothes are not revealing.

What to Eat

Al machboos is a delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's simple to make, and spices and dried fruits give it a wonderful flavor. Moreover, Dubai is right on the coast. That means loads of fish around, which is perfect for seafood lovers. Dishes made with fish are hearty and filling.

Additionally, M'hammar serves up delicious seafood meals that will transport you to the Arabian Peninsula. The locally caught fish is cooked to perfection with various spices and served with sweet yellow rice and caramelized onions.

Besides, Camel meat is a real delicacy in Dubai. If you're lucky enough to be invited to a special event where it's served, consider yourself among the VIPs.

Some other Emirati dishes to keep an eye out for are chebab, khameer bread, and kunafa. Plus, Arabic coffee is an experience, especially for those who often take theirs with only cream and sugar. This coffee features lightly roasted beans mixed with cardamom and saffron.

Where to Stay in Dubai

There's no shortage of places to stay in Dubai, but finding the right one can be challenging. With so many options to choose from, it's essential to know what you're looking for. 

Al Fahidi is the perfect place to stay if you want to experience "old" Dubai. This restored heritage area dates to the mid-19th century, formerly the Bastakiya Quarter. Here you'll find traditional architecture, winding alleyways, and a real sense of history. Sand-colored buildings line the narrow alleys of this town, home to museums, a few hotels, local craft shops, and art galleries.

Deira is on the northern side of Dubai Creek, home to the city's spice and seafood souqs. You'll also find traditional items galore at these local markets. 

You can also stay in Bur Dubai. This historic district is on the southern side of Dubai Creek, and it's full of beautiful sand-colored buildings. You'll feel like you've stepped back when you explore this neighborhood.

Furthermore, Jumeirah Beach is perfect for you. With its pristine, private beaches and plethora of nightlife options, this area will give you the relaxing vacation you deserve.

Development of Luxury Tourism in Dubai

Dubai is a hot spot for tourists, with millions of visitors yearly. There's always something new and exciting to do here. And with the United Nations World Travel Organization's (UNWTO) growth predictions, you can be sure that Dubai will continue to be the hottest destination. This is great news for Dubai. The city is now the fourth most visited globally and is on track to reach its goal of a lot more visitors.

Dubai's thriving tourism industry is a testament to the Department of Tourism's exemplary efforts and destination development strategy. Despite the many challenges that 2020 has brought, Dubai has shown its resilience and ability to adapt to whatever comes it's way. From macro-economic uncertainties to geopolitical turbulence, Dubai continues to thrive and prosper. 

However, despite economic troubles, Dubai is still flourishing. Thanks to the beautiful attractions and great exchange rates, tourism growth is more substantial. Dubai welcomed 88 million visitors in less than a year between January and October 2021. Even more alarming is that over one million visitors came in October alone.

The hospitality industry is booming, with almost 10 million room nights sold between January and October 2021. This strong growth is driven by international and domestic tourism, creating a bright future for the hospitality sector.

How to Get Around

To get around Dubai without the hassle of driving, take a taxi or the metro. They'll let you get around at your own pace without worrying about traffic.

Moreover, with the metro system, you can get to all the major sights and attractions, like the Dubai International Airport (DXB) and the Burj Khalifa, in no time at all. Plus, there's also no need to worry about getting stuck in traffic. The airport is just a short drive from downtown Dubai, but you can also rent a car.

All in all, there are a few things to keep in mind when getting around in Dubai. First, the public transportation system is excellent, so make use of it. 

Several private transportation options are available, but be sure to research them before you commit to anything. And finally, walking is always an option, but be sure to stay aware of your surroundings and dress appropriately.

How to Stay Safe

Dubai is a popular destination for tourists. However, it's essential to be aware of the city's safety risks before traveling. While violent crime is relatively rare in Dubai, there have been reports of sexual assaults, and thieves have targeted tourists. 

To stay safe in Dubai, be sure to research the city before you travel, dress modestly when you're out in public, and keep your valuables close to you. Don't go into Naif Road or Meena Bazaar by yourself after dark - it might not be safe. Beware of fake accessories too. There will be plenty of vendors trying to sell you knock-offs. 

Another way to protect yourself is to beware of the Dubai lucky draw scam. Scammers will call to congratulate you on winning but then ask you to send a deposit as security. Please don't fall for it. This is a total scam — don't give out any personal details or money.