Visit Dubai

Looking for an alternative to Abu Dhabi – then consider visiting Dubai.

Jenson Button  finally scraped enough points at the Brazil Grand Prix to take the 2009 F1 world title. As a consequence you would expect the final race of the season – the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – to be crossed off the race calender.  However the expectation of the inaugral race has meant that tickets for the race are sold out well in advance and hotels are fully booked.

For those wishing to experience the glamour and excitement of the United Arab Emirates there is an alternative – Dubai

Flights to Dubai

Direct fights to Dubai have dropped in price since the development of Abu Dhabi International Airport which is set to become the main hub in the Middle East replacing  Dubai Airport which pales in comparison.

Dubai – Hectic City

This hot, fast-paced, congested metropolis has a more cosmopolitan feel to it than Abu Dhabi.

To explore one of the last pockets of ‘Old Dubai’, head for the Bastakiya District, which houses many reconstructed traditional buildings plus art galleries and cafés.

At Dubai Museum you can experience the sights and sounds of a reconstructed traditional souq.

Dubai Shopping

If you haven’t had your fill of shopping in Abu Dhabi, there’s an even greater choice in neighbouring Dubai, which is only about 90 minutes away by road.

And if you’re after a shopping fix, there are countless malls to choose from, but for something unique try Ibn Battuta Mall, where you can learn about the explorer after which it is named while you shop.

Other Things to See in Dubai

You could go skiing or snowboarding at the snow centre in the Mall of the Emirates (MOE). Other city attractions include Dubai Zoo; Jumeira Beach; and tours of the Jumeirah Mosque.

Images of Dubai

This site has some splendid photographs of Dubai – although we suspect some are make believe – and some illuminating comments from visitors