Holidays to Dubai – £49pp deposits^

Dubai holiday guide

• When is the best time to visit Dubai?

  Yep, that’s right, it really is always sunny here! In the summer, which falls from June to September, temperatures can rise to 30-40°C but with waterparks, temperature controlled pools, and indoor attractions with AC, there's a whole load of ways to cool off. And as the summer months are the low season in Dubai, this is when you'll score some of the best deals - like Kids Go Free. Brill views, a beach (or one, or two, or three...) and a bargain? Sign us up.
  
  But if the summer is just a bit too sunny for you, we reckon October to May is the sweet spot, when it’s a cooler 20°C to 25°C.

  Have a little scroll and you’ll find a temp chart, which’ll give you a good idea of the weather over the year.

• What are the best Dubai attractions for families?

  Head directly to the dunes
  
  Now, if you’re up for a bit of adventure in Dubai, you’ve got to try a dune safari—it’s a right good laugh. Picture this: you’re out in the desert and it’s just you, the sand, and some cracking views. They’ll pick you up in one of those big 4x4s, and then you’re off, bounding over the dunes. The drivers know what they’re doing, but it’s still a proper thrill, and like nothing you'll have done before.
  
  Or try sandboarding, which is exactly what it says on the tin. Hop on a board, and slide right on down that warm sand. Now, that’s a memory maker right there!
  
  Get those goggles on at the water parks

  Right next to the Burj Al Arab in Jumeirah, Wild Wadi Waterpark is mega popular all year round, thanks to those warm temps they get. One of the world’s best waterparks, it’s a full on aquatic Arabian experience with both more chill options (hello lazy river!) and things with a bit more pizzaz, like the Flood River Flyer, the Jumeirah Sceirah and the surfing simulator.

  Aquaventure Water Park, meanwhile, is yet another one of those record breakers. Right next to Atlantis, The Palm, Aquaventure is flippin’ enormous, the – yep, you guessed it – world’s biggest, with a whopping 105 rides! Odyssey of Terror, Black Out and Leap of Faith are all 100% high thrills. But it’s not just slides, there’s also experiences like the Shark Safari, where you’ll get to explore a shark-filled lagoon whilst wearing a state-of-the-art helmet – you’ll look a bit funny but you’ll have a whale of a time!

  Part of Dubai Parks and Resorts, Legoland Water Park is especially great for younger kids, with lots of attractions that cater to toddlers, and a few big thrills for the braver ones. And forget Build-A-Bear, here you can Build-A-Boat – put it to the test against the current to see how seaworthy it is before sailing right on down the lazy river.
  
  

  Theme parks galore
  
  The largest integrated theme park destination in the Middle East, Dubai Parks and Resorts has over 2km of roller coasters and more than a hundred attractions, including MOTIONGATE Dubai which serves up branded entertainment from three of the major studios in La La Land – Dreamworks Animation, Columbia Pictures, and Lionsgate.

  IMG Worlds of Adventure is the city’s largest indoor theme park – 28 football fields worth, to be exact. Better bring those comfy trainers. There’s 6 distinct zones, each dedicated to your fave cartoons and superheros. Then there’s the live stage shows and character meet and greets, shopping at IMG Boulevard, Novo Cinemas…

  Whilst not strictly a theme park per se, KidZania at Dubai Mall is mega popular and award-winning, so you know it’s good. A super cool concept where kids get to play at being adults, in this incredible make-believe town there’s loads of role-playing activities that help kids build life skills whilst having loads of fun. Take it from us – drop ‘em off here and sneak off for a little bit of you time, whether that's eyeing up a new designer dress (and the matching shoes) or a drink and a straight up delicious meal, from Asian dishes to traditional Emirati menus.
  
  

  Get a dose of nature

  In Downtown Dubai you’ll find Burj Park, a nice little spot for a picnic. On a small island alongside the Burj Lake and accessible by bridges from the mainland, you’ll get a belter of a view of the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain whilst you eat your grub.

  Dubai Creek Harbour sits right between the city’s historical areas and the newer hubs of Downtown Dubai and Business Bay. It’s all about a slower pace of life here, with some seriously serene skyline views. Hop on a boat for a tour of the landmarks from the water or head to the nearby Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary to say hello to some proper fancy bird species.

• What are the best Dubai attractions for adults?

  Dubai Creek
  
  If you’re a first timer, then we reckon hopping on a boat across the Creek to get a taste of the old city will set you up nicely. Dubai Creek’s where it all started, really—a proper slice of the city’s history. It’s a natural saltwater inlet that splits Dubai into two parts: Deira on one side and Bur Dubai on the other. Nowadays, it’s a bit of a hidden gem compared to all the modern glitz, but it’s got a charm of its own. You can hop on an Abra and for just a few dirhams you’ll be crossing the creek in no time. With the bustling spice and gold souks on one side, and the shiny modern city in the background, it’s a proper mix of old and new.
  
  The Dubai Fountain

  The Dubai Fountain’s something else, it really is. Right in the middle of Downtown Dubai, in front of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, every half an hour from 6.30pm you're treated to a show like you wouldn't believe - and the best bit, it's free to watch! They’ve got these jets shooting water up as high as 500 feet—about the same height as a good-sized tower block— and they time it perfectly with the music. One minute it’s classical, the next it’s a bit of pop, and when the lights hit the water, it’s like a light show as well.

  Our favourite time to catch it is later in the evening when it’s all lit up, and the atmosphere’s spot on. You can even jump on a little boat to get up close, which is a bit special.

  
  Sky Views Dubai
  
  If this seems like child’s play to you, then you best make your way to Sky Views Dubai, who take sightseeing to whole new heights. Seriously. Get 360 degree views of the city 219.5 metres below from the Observatory, or go one step – or a bloomin' giant jump, if you ask us – further and take on the Edge Walk, a literal leap of faith 53 floors above Dubai.
  
  And go on - you know you want to do the slide.
  
  
  Deep Dive Dubai

  If you’d rather head right on down, then Deep Dive Dubai is the one for you. The world’s deepest pool, every man and his dog was going on about this place when it opened up last year! And it’s SO cool. We’re talking 60m of underwater exploring that’ll have you genuinely believing you’re in a whole other dimension. But hold your horses! You’ll only be able to explore a little bit of it without a proper diving certification. But if you’ve got one of those lying around, lucky you – this underwater world is your oyster, baby!

• What is shopping like in Dubai?

  Dubai is one of the best places in the world for shopping, and it runs the gamut from traditional souks to mega malls.

  
  Dubai Mall

  Dubai Mall - it’s like the biggest shopping centre you’ve ever seen, times ten. Seriously, it’s massive. we reckon the front doors to this place are like the pearly white gates for the shopaholic in your life. It’s not just shops, though—although there’s plenty of those, from your high-end designer stuff to more affordable brands.
  
  But what makes it really special is all the extra bits. They’ve got an indoor ice rink, KidZania (see above), e-karting, and even the Play DXB virtual reality theme park right inside the mall—proper mad, that. The food court’s on another level, too. It’s got everything from quick bites to proper sit-down meals, with cuisines from all over the world. And don’t forget to check out The Dubai Fountain just outside—there’s always a show on, and it’s a great way to finish off a day of shopping.

  Dubai Mall's not just a shopping trip—it’s a full day out.

  
  Mall of the Emirates

  This bustling shopping paradise is like a mini-city. We’re talking 560 stores, baby! There’s everything from luxury brands to more everyday stuff, so you’re sorted no matter what you’re after. And if you’re into gadgets, there’s a massive electronics section where you can find all the latest tech.
  
  They all sit alongside a mega ski centre too, Ski Dubai, as well as a pretty incredible VR experience called Dreamscape and Magic Planet for the wee ones.

  
  Dubai Hills Mall

  Not as well-known as some of the big hitters like Dubai Mall or Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Hills Mall's got its own charm. It’s relatively new and sits right in the middle of the Dubai Hills Estate, which gives it a bit of a laid-back vibe compared to the bigger malls.

  Inside, you’ve got a nice mix of shops, from high street brands to a few more upmarket ones. It’s not as sprawling, so you won’t be wandering around for hours trying to find what you’re looking for. One of the highlights is the food options. There’s a great selection of places to eat, whether you’re after a quick bite or a proper sit-down meal. Plus, there’s a cinema if you fancy catching a film after you’ve done a bit of shopping.
  
  Alerskal Avenue
  
  Alerskal Avenue is where you’ll find the cutting-edge of culture in the city. Expect a mix of contemporary arts organisations and home-grown businesses. Boutiques, galleries, performance spaces…all sorts, really.

  
  More souks than you can shake your sunnies at

  There’s loads of souks all clustered around Dubai Creek, the heart of the old city, and they all bring with them a special, historical touch to a city that can feel very full on and futuristic AF. There’s the Gold Souk in Deira, selling – well, erm – gold, but diamonds, watches and silver too. Then there’s the Perfume Souk, where you can bag some (you can see where this is going!) fragrances and essential oils – now’s your chance to score your very own bespoke scent, talk about a holiday souvenir!

  The Spice Souk is your one-stop-shop for all things spices, fruit and dried foods (sample some of the local dates – delish!), whilst a quick traditional boat ride away in Bur Dubai is the Textile Souk where you can get measured for your own custom fit.

• Where to find Dubai's best beaches

  Yep, let’s talk beaches, baby! There’s loads of ‘em, so here’s a quick run through if you want one that’s free, family-friendly, or super luxe.

  A bit of a quieter spot on the coast, Sunset Beach is perfect – here’s a shocker - for watching the sun set across the Arabian Gulf! It’s free and also fab for a morning stroll to get your day started and has a view of the Burj Al Arab (that’s the one that looks like a sail boat!) to boot. The Jumeirah Public Beach - Nessnass to locals – is great for families as well as not costing you a penny. Lowkey and lovely. Kite Beach, meanwhile, is a famous spot for kitesurfing. A super sporty beach with loads of activities on offer.

  Al Mamzar Beach Park is sprawling, spreading across five pristine beaches and three pools where the whole fam can cool off without getting sand in all sorts of places. For a small fee, you’ll also get barbecue areas, playgrounds, and lagoons – not too shabby.

  And then there’s the beaches attached to the resorts which are all pretty fancy and usually accessible to non-guests for a small fee. We’re talking Banyan Tree, Sofitel The Palm, and The Ritz Carlton – just to name a few!

• What is the cuisine in Dubai?

  Dubai is a proper multicultural melting pot, soaking up gastronomic influences from loads of its neighbours – India, the Mediterranean, Africa…all sorts! For something fast, cheap and absolutely delish you’ll want some Arabian snack food like shawarma and falafel, all easy to grab from kiosks and street vendors. For more cheap and cheerful grub, then Bur Dubai is your one-stop-shop! A haven for foodies, you can try loads of different cuisines from Asian street food to classic Indian dishes.
  
  Meanwhile at Dubai Marina you're spoiled for choice, with restaurants lining the waterfront offering all sorts of cuisine. Fancy a bit of Italian? Head to Bussola. If you’re in the mood for seafood, Catch 22 is a cracking spot. It’s got a modern twist on your classic fish dishes, and the views aren’t half bad either. Or try Mama Zonia - it's got that jungle theme going on, with some of the best Latin American food in the city.

  Every mall, beach front development, and tourist attraction in Dubai comes complete with a food court, while restaurants at the hotels and in the downtown area wouldn't look out of place in London, Paris or New York.

  The dining scene in Dubai has boomed in recent years, with some of the world's best chef's now working in the city. Michelin-star level dining can be found both at resorts, like Hakkasan at Atlantis, The Palm, which is all about modern Cantonese cuisine with a bit of Dubai flair. The dim sum is a must-try, and the Peking duck is famous for a reason. But they can also be found across the city, like 11 Woodfire, along Jumeirah Beach Road. Come here for a chic but casual meal inspired by the experience of gathering around a fire - think wagyu kebab, seabass with hay-salted crust and tamarind, and Australian T-bone steak. Delish.
  
  Other good locations when considering where to eat in Dubai include: Dubai's Heritage Village, a busy enclave of al fresco tables, boardwalks and bars; the bars and bistros around Burj Khalifa; and Al Satwa, a vibrant neighbourhood left relatively untouched compared to the glitzy skyscrapers around it where you can really explore Dubai's street food scene.
  
  Wherever you are in the city, you’ll find restaurants that run from the pricey to the more family-friendly, with good 'all-you-can-eat' deals popular with hungry tourists.

• What is Dubai nightlife like?

  Dubai Creek is chocka with great restaurants, whilst Downtown Dubai is where you should head to party to both Arabian and Western pop bangers, enjoy live concerts and watch street performers – all amidst the hustle and bustle of the souks.

  Dubai Marina is perfect if you fancy, well…a more fancy night! Think more upscale lounges and restaurants, like Asia Asia, Attiko, and City Social Dubai. And don’t sleep on Business Bay! If this place could wear a T Shirt it would defo say ‘Business in the front, party in the back!’ Enjoy a carnival-inspired evening at Billionaire Mansion or chill at Waka Bar, where it’s all about the Japanese-Latin fusion.

  Sheikh Zayed Road used to be the OG place for nightlife before the Marina came along, but it still holds its own today with loads of Dubai icons alive and well here, like the Boa Lounge and the Level 43 Sky Lounge.

  Head to the Jumeirah Beach complex for some more of the city’s hottest spots such as 360, Sanctuary and Zinc.

• What is Dubai's culture & lifestyle like?

  It's a fascinating combination of cosmopolitan modernity and Emirati heritage. With Bedouin roots that go back thousands of years, the emirate has a long history of rich Arabian customs - including a deep appreciation for luxury!
  
  Dubai is a global business hub, tourist hotspot and retail capital of the world (hello, tax-free shopping!) - not to mention perfectly located for sun-seekers and beach bums. You'll find locals enjoying the world-class attractions, indulging in fine dining and enjoying each other's company. While the scenery may have changed, and most of the population are actually expatriates, the core of Emirati life hasn't. Islamic values are highly regarded - respect, hospitality and modesty are expected from all citizens and visitors - and there's a call to prayer five times a day.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

• Can you visit Dubai during Ramadan and Eid?

  Yes, you can visit Dubai during Ramadan and Eid. While some activities may be restricted due to fasting, it's a brilliant time to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the locals.

• Dubai events - what's on when?

  16th Jan to 1^st Feb

  Silver Cup

  A prestigious event within the world of polo, this is the opening event of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series, followed later by other major tournaments like the Gold Cup and Dubai Challenge Cup. Matches are played at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club, a state-of-the-art facility in Dubai known for being mega on the luxury scale, with some very picturesque polo fields to boot. It draws polo enthusiasts, alongside celebs and 'high-profile' individuals - oo-er - making it a proper glam social affair. A fun day out for all, we reckon. Bring your gladrags!

  29th Jan to 3rd Feb

  Emirates Airline Festival of Literature

  Founded in 2009 and now a cornerstone cultural event, this is one of the largest and most prestigious literary festivals in the Middle East. Think world-renowned authors, poets, thinkers, and book enthusiasts cosying up together from across the globe. Previous participants include big names like Malala Yousafzai, Jeffrey Archer, Jo Nesbø, and Elif Shafak. Events are hosted at The InterContinental Dubai Festival City, where you can expects author talks, panel discussions, and workshops.

  31^st Jan to 9^th Feb

  Sikka Art & Design Festival

  An annual celebration of art, culture, and creativity, showcasing the work of emerging and established artists from the UAE and the wider Gulf region. The word "Sikka" actually means alleyway in Arabic, which is pretty fitting, considering the festival's location in the charming Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, a maze of traditional Emirati houses and narrow lanes. Many of the artworks are site-specific installations, transforming the historic buildings and alleyways into a living gallery. Also expect live performances, film screenings, and pop up shops and markets - perfect for a unique trinket to take home.

  14^th to 16^th Feb

  Taste of Dubai

  Celebrating the city’s vibrant culinary scene, Taste of Dubai is held at venues like Dubai Media City Amphitheatre - a lush, open-air location that with a lively and laid-back atmosphere. With a line up that features Dubai’s best restaurants, you can sample their signature dishes at a fraction of the usual price - now we're talking! Past participants have included Indego by Vineet, Nobu, Ronda Locatelli, and loads more. There's live cooking demonstrations, masterclasses, and Q&A sessions, and chefs like Gordon Ramsay, Gary Rhodes, and Vineet Bhatia have all showed up here in the past.

  5^th to 22^nd Feb

  Gold Cup

  Part of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series, this annual event, like the Silver Cup held in January, is a highlight on the international polo calendar. As with the Silver Cup, matches are hosted at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club. A social event as much as it is a sporting competition, it's where luxury meets athleticism.

  19^th to 23rd Feb

  Dubai International Boat Show

  Now, this is one of the Dubai events you really don't wanna miss - launched in 1992, the Dubai International Boat Show has grown into one of the most significant marine events globally, and is hosted at Dubai Harbour, a state-of-the-art waterfront location offering stunning marina views. A centrepiece of the show is the jaw-dropping display of luxury yachts and superyachts from renowned manufacturers like Sunseeker, Azimut, Gulf Craft, Ferretti, and Benetti. Marine equipment and tech are also on display, with exhibits showcasing the latest advancements in navigation systems, sustainability, and smart boating solutions.

  16^th Feb to 1^st Mar

  Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

  One of the premier tennis tournaments in the Middle East and held annually in February or March at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, it was stablished in 1993 and it features both ATP (men's) and WTA (women's) events, attracting top-ranked players from around the globe. Past champions include legends like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Venus Williams. Plus, it's not alllll about tennis - there's also the Tennis Village with food stalls, live entertainment, and activities, making it one of the must-do Dubai events for sports enthusiasts and families alike.

  1st Mar to 9^th Mar

  Dubai Challenge Cup

  Another event in the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series, this is another big moment on the Middle East's equestrian calendar. Hosted, as usual, at the luxurious Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club.

  1^st Mar to 31^st Mar

  Ramadan

  A truly unique time, offering you a chance to experience the city’s rich cultural and religious traditions. During this holy month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, breaking their fast with an iftar, a communal meal often hosted in lavish tents and venues across the city. While the days are quieter and more reflective, the city comes alive after sunset with vibrant night markets, cultural events, and suhoor gatherings that extend late into the night. Non-Muslims are welcomed to join the celebrations, though they are encouraged to respect the customs, such as refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.

  Got some questions about Ramadan in Dubai? We've got answers.

  31^st Mar to 2^nd April

  Eid Al Fitr

  A joyous celebration marking the end of Ramadan, it’s one of the most festive times of the year in the city. The day begins with special Eid prayers at mosques, followed by gatherings of family and friends who exchange greetings, gifts, and traditional dishes like harees and luqaimat. There's a proper vibrant energy, featuring fireworks displays, cultural performances, and shopping festivals offering incredible discounts at malls. Attractions like Dubai Parks and Resorts and Global Village host special events too, making it a family-friendly time to explore.

  5^th April

  Dubai World Cup

  One of the most prestigious horse racing events in the world, it's held annually at the iconic Meydan Racecourse. Established in 1996 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, it's now the richest horse race globally, with a prize pool of a whopping $12 million - no wonder all the top racehorses, jockeys, and trainers come galloping from across the globe. Think thrilling races with a vibrant social atmosphere, including live entertainment, fashion shows, and gourmet dining experiences. An absolute jewel of Dubai’s sporting calendar.

  6^th April to 21^st April

  InClassica International Music Festival

  Featuring some of the world’s most celebrated musicians, orchestras, and conductors, this festival spans several weeks of mega performances that highlight timeless works alongside contemporary compositions. Hosted at prestigious venues like the Dubai Opera, it attracts classical music enthusiasts from around the globe.

  17^th to 20^th April

  World Art Dubai

  An annual art fair that brings together a massive collection of contemporary (and affordable!) art from around the globe. Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, is about creativity in all its forms, showcasing works from emerging and established artists, galleries, and independent creators. With an emphasis on accessibility, it offers art lovers and collectors an opportunity to purchase unique pieces, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and digital art, at loads of different price points.

  11^th May

  Global Village ends

  A blend of international pavilions, shopping, live performances, and cuisine from around the globe - basically a world tour in one destination, where you can explore cultures from more than 90 countries. The sprawling outdoor venue is mega family-friendly, mixing fun with some learning - all within a festive atmosphere. In 2025, Global Village will run from 24th October, 2024, to 11th May, 2025 - the perfect winter-season attraction to enjoy Dubai’s mild weather.

  October

  Global Village starts
  
  Launched in 1997, Global Village runs from October through to April and is an open air event that's become a staple in the winter calendar here. Ninety cultures showcase their local products within 27 pavilions, and there also happens to be over 175 rides, games, attractions. A great one for the whole fam, and just as temps start to cool off.

  13^th to 16^th November

  DP World Tour Championships

  The DP World Tour Championship is the prestigious season-ending tournament of the DP World Tour (formerly European Tour), held annually at the spectacular Jumeirah Golf Estates - Earth Course. As the finale of the Race to Dubai, it sees the top 50 players from the tour’s rankings competing for one of the largest prize pools in golf, with a winner’s share of millions of dollars - cha-ching!

  2^nd December

  UAE National Day

  Celebrated every 2nd of December, this annual super spectacle is all about marking the unification of the 7 emirates into one nation. Fireworks. Parades. Ceremonies. Basically a really big party you won't be able to miss if you're in town.

• Can you show affection in public?

  It's true that overt displays of affection are pretty frowned upon in Dubai, but let's be honest, who likes unwillingly stumbling upon a PDA session anywhere in the world?

• What should I wear in Dubai?

  Another important thing to think about is your wardrobe - don't just chuck anything in your suitcase! Typical summer clothes are absolutely fine but when visiting religious sites, a really useful piece of kit for women is a shawl - pop it on when shoulders are exposed when visiting places like mosques and men, wear long shorts that cover your knees.

• Is alcohol legal in Dubai?

  Yes - to an extent. There's no problem drinking in licensed restaurants, hotels and bars attached to licensed hotels, but drinking in a public place (including the beach) isn't allowed. And just like almost everywhere else, they have a zero tolerance policy on drinking and driving.
  
  

  Dubai is a beautiful and fascinating city to visit, welcoming people from all over the place, but this otherwise tolerant society does have certain rules that it’s wise to observe and learn before you jet off.

• Which airlines fly to Dubai?

  Plenty of airlines fly from the UK to Dubai. If you want a direct flight to Dubai from the UK, take a look at Emirates, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic.
  
  For indirect flights, which are usually cheaper and give you the chance to turn a stopover into a mini break, try Oman Air and Turkish Airlines.

• Which are the most popular hotels in Dubai?

  Dubai has so many top-notch hotels you're spoilt for choice! But of all the Dubai hotels to choose from, we reckon these are worth checking out:
  
  Fairmont The Palm
  A private beach, 8 pools, amazing views, Michelin-star restaurants, a kids club - need we go on?
  
  FIVE Palm Jumeirah
  Unashamed luxury, glamour, gourmet food, an adults only lounge, and spectacular views from the heart of the Palm Jumeirah.
  
  Atlantis The Royal
  Sky bars. Flame fountains. World class dining. A private beach. A whopping 90 pools. Kids club. Unlimited access to Aquaventure, the world's largest water park.

• How to get a last minute holiday to Dubai?

  Dubai flight and hotel packages tend to be the best price about 3-5 months before departure.
  
  If you can't wait that long and want a proper last minute holiday, the best time to look is in June, July and August where the temperatures in Dubai are mega high, and travel costs are low. Or if you cant bear the thought of temperatures that high, search for flights and rooms in the shoulder seasons - November and March.
  
  That being said, the best way to get a cheap last minute holiday to Dubai is to be mega flexible: on your dates, flights, where you fly from and to, the accommodation.

• How to explore Dubai history and culture?

  Dubai Creek
  
  The first thing we always recommend is getting yourself on a traditional abra boat across the Dubai Creek for dirt cheap – it’s a mega way to the see city from the water. Super cheap and super authentic, just the way we like it! Top tip? Do it at sunset. Unbelievable. Speaking of the Creek, a nice stroll along the water’s edge won’t do you wrong either. Once the hub of trading activity in the city, you can still people watch as loads of cargo gets packed up, ready to ship off all over the globe.
  
  
  Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

  This is where it’s at for getting a feel for the way Dubai used to be before all your Burj Khalifa’s rolled into town. Navigate winding alleys and stumble into sunlit squares…no, you’re not in Venice! Once a major administrative and commercial hub, it’s now a window into the 19^th and early 20^th century. We’re talking traditional tea houses and gorgeous architecture galore!
  
  
  Tick some of those landmarks off!
  
  When it comes to landmarks you just can’t miss, we can think of a couple. Jumeirah Mosque, for one. It’s the only mosque that allows non-Muslims to visit. Take a tour with the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding and you’ll come away with a whole new perspective on the religion. Then there’s Al Fahidi Fort – that’s the oldest building in the city!