UAE – DUBAI AND ABU DHABI
It is not everyone’s cup of tea, and does not show you much about Arabian culture, but if you are fascinated by an ever changing modern cityscape, really want some winter sun or are looking for a stopover on your flights out east then look no further than Dubai or neighbouring Abu Dhabi. There is an amazing array of hotels and activities, good beaches, greater shopping and a buzz unlike very few places on earth. It is only 7 hours away, there are tons of direct flights from all over the UK, it’s fun and can be great value – just don’t go expecting a cultural or natural experience.
Modern Dubai
Dubai is a unique city with an ever changing skyline and propensity to build big. Artificial islands, theme parks, incredible shopping malls (they even have a shopping festival) and some of the world’s best sporting events. Dubai has re-invented itself as a 21st century tourist hub with an outstanding range of hotels and things to do. Getting around is easy and it’s a great choice for families and couples – you can pretty much guarantee hot weather and sun although we’d suggest avoiding the summer months!
Arabian Dubai
While little is left of the old Dubai, it was a very small settlement anyway, there is still enough to get a flavour of Arabia away from the skyscrapers and brunches. The outstanding Dubai Museum paints a good picture of its development and the areas around the Creek, such as Bastakiya, bustle with life while a short abra (water-taxi) ride is well worth it.
Abu Dhabi
It’s big brother Abu Dhabi has taken a different tack and starting behind Dubai it has decided to take a different approach to diversifying away from oil & gas. With a philosophy of less is more there is an Arabian feel with some high quality hotels and outstanding public buildings. While there’s fun to be had at Ferrari World or the Yas Waterworld also take time to enjoy the sweeping corniche and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It is safe to say Abu Dhabi is a quieter option to Dubai but with new arrivals on the horizon, such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi. It is sure to continue to grow in popularity.
The Arabian Desert
From both emirates you can head out into the desert to one of the famous Oasis towns such as Liwa or Al Ain or alternatively to a stand alone resort. Not only does this offer a great variety to the busy city it allows you to experience the peace and quiet of the landscape and the desert night skies or tackle the immense sand dunes in a 4×4 experience
- Watch the date of Ramadan – some Islamic countries will be stricter on their restrictions than others. In all cases you will need to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public places. If that is the only time you can go then speak to us first.
- 2024 – Early March to early April
- 2025 – Start to end of March
- Dubai can be easily linked with Oman. Visiting Musandam can actually be easier from Dubai than Muscat.
- Dubai and Abu Dhabi are extraordinarily well served with flights from the UK so they can easily be built in as a stopover for flights out to Asia and Australasia.
- If all you are looking for is guaranteed winter sun then think about Abu Dhabi – prices for the top hotels can be a lot lower than in neighbouring Dubai
- The modern metropolitan wonder that is Dubai
- The world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, and one of the most iconic hotel’s, the Burj al-Arab.
- Cross Dubai Creek by abra water taxi (20p) and get lost in the souk
- Enjoy the Abu Dhabi Corniche and stunning Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
- Skiing in the Mall of the Emirates and then water-skiing in the Persian Gulf
- Staying out in an Oasis or one of the desert resorts with those amazing star filled skies
- Visa Required: No
- Population: 2.1 million
- Capital City: Dubai
- Currency: UAE Dirham
- Flying time from London: 7 hours to Dubai (direct)
- Classic Dishes: shwarma, fish, dates
- Cost of Local Tipple: tea or Coffee (50p)
- October to April
RECOMMENDED HOLIDAYS
A selection of holidays
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by TMS
