How to celebrate Dubai's incredible culture, both past and present
Dubai has come a long way since its origin as a pearl-diving village. It has emerged as a modern metropolis, all gleaming architecture and man-made islands of soft, white sands.
Yet behind the futuristic skyscrapers, Michelin-star restaurants and glamorous malls, Dubai's traditional heart remains. The streets of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and the scented souks, fragrant with spices and vibrant with colour, are ripe for exploration.
Discover new tastes at Dubai's Spice Souk, filled with stalls offering exotic spices
Credit : Getty
The rich heritage of the nation is perfectly juxtaposed with Dubai's modernity, where international cuisine and beach life are set against the backdrop of an ancient culture.
Dubai Creek takes you on a whirlwind trip back in time, where you can cross between Deira and Bur Dubai on an authentic abra boat. Enter the labyrinthian Spice Souk in Deira Wharf, with its sacks and bags of brightly hued fragrant spices, or head to the even more highly scented Perfume Souk. And don't miss the dazzling sight of the Gold Souk, where you can barter for gems and diamonds, precious metals and jewellery.
For an authentic journey like those enjoyed in the past, take an abra boat trip at Dubai Creek
Credit : Getty
Bur Dubai is the oldest part of the city, where dhow boats are moored at the water's edge and the distinctive narrow streets and Arabian wind towers – a traditional way to cool buildings – define its Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Here, you'll also find museums and galleries, artisans honing their craft, and peaceful, shaded courtyards. You can learn more about Emirati traditions and enjoy a traditional meal at the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding.
Head out on a Dubai desert safari Land Rover tour for an unforgettable trip over the dunes
Credit : Getty
Travel further back in time by leaving the city behind you and heading into the wilderness for a desert dinner visit, isolated under the starlight and lit by torches. A desert safari tour will show you Dubai as it was in the 1950s, taking you in open-top vintage Land Rovers on a spectacular journey through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve to a Bedouin camp.
After soaking up Dubai's history, it's time to return to the present. Nothing brings you more up to date than the city's striking architecture. The impressive Museum of the Future is housed in a steel torus-shaped building covered in Arabic calligraphy.
Dubai Opera brings the best of the performing arts to the very heart of Dubai
Credit : Shutterstock
You can soak up awe-inspiring views from the top of the tallest building in the world – the Burj Khalifa – and explore the heritage of the UAE within the gleaming white curves of the Etihad Museum. The Dubai Opera is a fittingly glamorous venue for a whole variety of performances, while the Dubai Frame doesn't just present the cityscape in a novel way, but also tells the story of the Emirate and its future, and offers the feeling of walking on air as you cross its glass bridge.
There are art galleries, such as the Ayyam and Majlis galleries, showcasing contemporary Middle Eastern art, and the culinary scene encompasses everything from modern Emirati chefs creating home-grown havens to the glamour of celebrity show-stoppers, fabulous brunches to cosy cafes.
Majlis gallery is a must-see for its range of fine arts including paintings and sculptures
Credit : Majlis Gallery
Golfers will enjoy the opportunity to tee off on some of the world's most spectacular courses, including beachfront, desert and pristine parkland.
For car lovers, there's a wealth of vintage and luxury cars, both driving around the streets and on display in one of the city's many car cafés. These venues not only celebrate motorsports, but offer the chance to see some incredible cars up close.
And of course, the beach clubs are simply sublime, with sun, sea and sand spreading out before you under shady palms; plus sumptuous dining, sultry music and a lively party atmosphere.
Arrive in style by flying with Emirates
Award-winning Emirates has flights to Dubai from eight UK airports: Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow. With comfortable cabins and only a four-hour time difference between the UK and Dubai, you'll arrive refreshed. Economy passengers can settle in to enjoy the acclaimed food and entertainment (there are 6,500 channels).
Premium Economy guests can recline further thanks to the extendable leg rests. And Business-Class passengers can snooze in lie-flat comfort and stretch their legs in the onboard lounge. All while Emirates' cabin crew give you a taste of the warm hospitality you'll experience in Dubai.
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