Dubai

Dubai: history

Dubai was a small village of fishermen and pearl divers beside a creek. The Al Maktoum family settled here in 1833 and still rules. Oil was found in 1966, and the United Arab Emirates was formed in 1971.

The city then built its future on trade and tourism. The Burj Khalifa opened in 2010. At 828 metres it is the tallest building in the world. Dubai has a large Indian community, so vegetarian food is easy to find.

Dubai: tourist attractions

• Burj KhalifaThe observation deck on the 124th floor.
• Dubai Mall & FountainThe aquarium, and the fountain show every evening.
• Desert safariA drive over the dunes, a camel ride and dinner at a camp. Vegetarian meals are served.
• Dhow dinner cruiseAn evening on a wooden boat, on the Creek or at the Marina.
• Old DubaiAl Fahidi, an abra across the Creek, and the Gold and Spice Souks.
• Palm JumeirahThe palm-shaped island and Atlantis.
• Dubai FrameA giant picture frame with old Dubai on one side and new on the other.
• Museum of the FutureA ring-shaped building covered in Arabic writing.
• Miracle Garden & Global VillageOpen in the cooler months, from about October to April.

Dubai: excursions nearby

• Sharjah about 30 kmMuseums and a heritage district.
• Hatta about 130 kmMountains and kayaking on a dam.
• Abu Dhabi about 140 kmThe Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the BAPS Hindu Mandir and Ferrari World.
• Al Ain about 150 kmAn oasis city with a fort and a camel market.

Distances are approximate. Tell us which excursions you want and we add them to your quote.